First Lady Mama Rachel Ruto spearheaded the nation’s Day of the African Child celebrations held at Mwatate Primary School in Taita Taveta County. The theme for the 2024 celebrations, “Education for All Children in Africa: The Time is Now,” aligns with the African Union’s 2024 theme, which aims to equip every African for the 21st century through resilient education systems.
The First Lady commended the National Government’s significant strides in improving educational quality and accessibility for all Kenyan children. Mama Rachel Ruto highlighted strategic initiatives such as the recruitment of 30,000 additional teachers, the school feeding program, the development of Jitume Digital Hubs in learning institutions, and the recent increased budgetary allocation for the Ministry of Education.
Hon. Andrew Mwandime, the Governor of Taita Taveta County, appreciated the focus on quality education during the celebrations, as education is crucial for children’s development. He also praised the National School Feeding program for increasing school enrollment and retention rates.
Hon. Florence Bore, Cabinet Secretary for Labour and Social Protection, in a speech delivered by Joseph Motari, the Principal Secretary for Social Protection, highlighted the ministry’s efforts to review the National Children Policy, the Early Childhood Development Policy, and the policy on eliminating child labor. Once approved, these policy guidelines will mark a significant milestone in strengthening children’s rights in Kenya.
The First Lady urged all stakeholders to actively develop interventions to ensure every child, regardless of gender, socioeconomic background, or geographic location, enjoys the right to a quality life.
Other leaders present at the celebrations included Hon. Peter Mbogho Shake, MP Mwatate Constituency; Hon. Lydia Haika, County Member of Parliament, Taita Taveta County; Hon. John Bwire, MP Taveta Constituency; Hon. Wisdom Kazungu, Speaker, Taita Taveta County; Sophia Abdinoor, Chairperson National Council for Children Services; Gilbert Kamanga, Country Director, World Vision Kenya; and Josephine Onunga, Taita Taveta County Commissioner.
