BY MFANUFIKILE KHATHWANE
MBABANE- His Majesty King Mswati III has called on SADC countries to ensure children are directly included in reviewing laws that affect their well-being.
The message was delivered on his behalf by Deputy Prime Minister Thulisile Dladla during the Regional World Children’s Day commemoration held at the Parliament of Botswana on Saturday.
The event, themed “My Day, My Rights From Promises to Action,” brought together eight SADC leaders, including the President of Botswana, Advocate Duma Boko, and delegations of children from across the region. Eswatini’s delegation included 10 children among them children living with disabilities as well as the ENOUGH Campaign Ambassador, Hlelo Nsibandze. Deputy Prime Minister Thulisile Dladla was accompanied by Minister of Education and Training Owen Nxumalo.
In her address, Deputy Prime Minister Senator Thulisile Dladla emphasised the urgency of responding to the real concerns raised by children.
“We have heard these innocent voices, voices telling us to be proactive, not reactive. Voices calling for us to be intentional whenever we deal with issues affecting children,” she said. “Listening to today’s voices, one feels we have not done enough. This is a call to our Heads of State to revisit each and every policy and piece of legislation affecting children.”
Children at the event raised concerns about disability inclusion, inequality in schools, and inadequate teacher preparedness. One participant highlighted the need for accessible community centres, stating that such spaces would “help us manoeuvre our disabilities and feel included.”
Botswana’s President Advocate Duma Boko reminded leaders of their regional responsibility. “This event challenges us to renew our promises and ensure that no child in our region is left behind,” he said. “Global leaders must reassess how they engage children and youth.”
As part of the tradition, President Boko ceremonially passed a torch to the Head of Government of Lesotho, symbolising the handover of hosting duties for next year’s event.
The Eswatini delegation, which departed on Friday, is expected to return home today, 16 November 2025.
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(Courtesy Pics)
