“Government must take our views into account when they develop policies and programmes because we are future leaders of this nation. We have better ideas of how government can improve our lives for the better. Nothing must be decided about us without our involvement”. These bold words were said by children during the Second Annual Nelson Mandela Children’s Parliament which was held at the Mpumalanga Provincial Legislature on Saturday.
Speaking in front of the Minister of Women, Children and People with Disabilities, Ms Lulu Xingwana, children raised issues of concern to them and urged government to respond with speed. Children challenged government to make sure that all children have access to quality and decent education. They also said government should intervene and stop cultural practices such as ukuthwala (where young girls are forced into marriages with men).
Children said this amounted to rape and sexual abuse which destroy the future of children. They also demanded that government must take serious measures to ensure the safety of children. In this regard, they urged government to help stop the abduction and mutilation of children. They raised concerns about child mortality and poverty that confront many children. They challenged government to invest in child health and development.
“This is time for action, not promises!” This message reverberated throughout the chambers of the Mpumalanga Legislature as children raised their issues and demanded that those in authority should address their concerns.
In response, Minister Xingwana made a commitment that their recommendations would be treated as a priority. She said that the whole of government would own up to the issues raised by children. All government departments would continue to strengthen their working relationships to ensure that government achieves the desired level and quality of services for children, including good quality education and safer schools.
The department is in the process of reviewing the National Plan of Action for Children, and the Children’s Parliament is part of soliciting views of children during the drafting of the National Plan of Action for Children.
“The Nelson Mandela Children’s Parliament is about providing a platform for children to be heard. Together with the Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund, we committed ourselves to the principle of holding those in authority accountable. You correctly demand accountability, not only from government, but from parents, caregivers, community, civil society and other sectors of society”, said Minister Xingwana.
“I do not know of any other country in the world where this noble initiative of a children’s parliament is being practiced. This says a lot about our country’s commitment to groom young minds to be prepared for tomorrow’s leadership roles. In addition to this mission of preparing you for tomorrow’s leadership, we are also embarking on this children’s parliament to continuously raise awareness about your plight and dreams”.
The Minister also said that she was concerned about safety and security of our children. “One of the greatest challenges facing our country is the scourge of violence against children. Far too many of our children are being attacked, raped and killed. The annual South African Police Service (SAPS) crime statistics indicate an increase in cases of attempted murder, murder and sexual offences against children between 2009 and 2010. There has been an increase in crimes that involve violence and brutality towards children. You correctly remind us to take steps to ensure your safety and security”.
She challenged all the children present to read and learn about the journey of Nelson Mandela’s life and his contribution in building a democratic and free South Africa.
“There is no better way we could have honoured the legacy of uTata Mandela to the future of this country, than to give the future leaders of this country the platform to express their views and hold us accountable.
The Nelson Mandela Children’s Parliament was a partnership between the Department of Women, Children and People with Disabilities, Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund, Mpumalanga Provincial Government and the Mpumalanga Provincial Legislature.
Enquiries:
Cornelius Tanana Monama
Tel: 012 359 0224
Cell: 082 578 4063
Nothing about Us, Without Us - children tell Parliament
