As the world commemorates the International Day of the African Child 2025, the International Solidarity Foundation (ISF) has issued a strong call to action, urging governments, civil society, and communities to prioritize children’s wellbeing as a matter of justice rather than charity.
In a statement released today, ISF Country Director for Kenya, Ireneous Kombe, emphasized that while significant progress has been made in improving policies, school enrollment, and protection frameworks for children, much more remains to be done — especially in rural areas such as Nyamira and Kisii.
“The pace of change has not matched the magnitude of children’s needs,” Kombe stated. “In many communities, children still lack access to quality education, essential health services, and protection from violence and harmful practices.”
This year’s theme, *”Planning and Budgeting for Children’s Rights: Progress Since 2010,”* serves both as a celebration and a wake-up call, highlighting the ongoing challenges exposed by pandemics, climate-related disasters, and economic shocks. These vulnerabilities often result in children’s rights being deprioritized during times of crisis.
Kombe called for stronger investments in child protection systems that are resilient, sustainably financed, and capable of withstanding future shocks. “We cannot afford to treat child wellbeing as a seasonal concern. It must be at the heart of our national planning and budgeting processes,” she stressed.
Beyond infrastructure, ISF emphasized the importance of including children’s voices in decision-making. Kombe advocated for child-led forums, youth parliaments, and grassroots platforms that empower children to influence how resources are allocated and used.
“When we budget for children’s needs, we are not doing them a favour; we are fulfilling an obligation,” Kombe said. “Investing in children is not an act of charity, it is justice.”
The International Solidarity Foundation reaffirmed its commitment to work with government agencies, grassroots organizations, and local communities to ensure children are safe, heard, and supported to reach their full potential.
As the International Day of the African Child is marked, ISF calls on all stakeholders to make bold, accountable investments that secure Kenya’s future by securing the wellbeing of its youngest citizen
ISF is a non-governmental organization launched in 1970. International Solidarity Foundation has made a lasting impact in the lives of women, men, and entire communities for over 50 years now. We have specialized know-how in how to work with delicate issues in fragile communities. Over 85 000 people benefit from our work annually.
