Rabat: In statements made during the closing ceremony of the First African Forum of Children’s Parliament, child parliamentarians emphasized the significance of the event in amplifying the voices of children across the continent. The forum was chaired by HRH Princess Lalla Meryem, President of the National Observatory for the Rights of the Child (ONDE), and organized under the High Patronage of HM King Mohammed VI.

According to Agence Marocaine De Presse, the young representatives expressed their gratitude to HRH Princess Lalla Meryem for her unwavering support for children’s issues. The forum provided a platform for children to articulate their expectations and engage in discussions about the challenges facing African children. Marwa Kadouri, representing the Marrakech-Safi region, highlighted the chance to address childhood issues and formulate solutions during the forum.

Togue Yallah Anita, President of the Children’s Parliament of Chad, described the forum as a crucial initiative for ensuring that the voices of African children are heard. She underscored that the discussions yielded valuable proposals for improving children’s conditions, emphasizing the importance of listening to young people as they represent Africa’s future.

Abir Bouktaya, from the Rabat-Sal©-K©nitra region, noted that the forum was a result of ONDE’s efforts and collaborations with African nations to enhance children’s situations. She highlighted a key recommendation from the “combating child labour” workshop, which called for increased awareness of children’s education and their role in development.

Douae El Faghrawi, from the Guelmim-Oued Noun region, expressed her pride in participating in the forum, which facilitated discussions on issues like child marriage and homelessness. Fatouma Ahmed Hassan, representing Djibouti, expressed her honor in participating and thanked HRH Princess Lalla Meryem for organizing the significant event. She also emphasized the forum’s recommendations focused on improving the living conditions of African children.

The forum symbolized the concept that “unity is strength,” enabling countries to enhance their capacities and foster hope for a better future for African children.