Advocacy

Across Uganda and the continent, children are rising speaking out with clarity, courage and conviction about the issues affecting their lives. Through intentional platforms created by ChildFund and its partners, young voices are no longer relegated to the background. They are now central in shaping policies, inspiring action and driving sustainable change.

We actively engaged children in three pivotal events aimed at elevating their voices and enhancing child participation in development processes.

At the 11th African Regional Forum on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in Kampala, children highlighted urgent issues such as poor education, child labour and inadequate sanitation, advocating for stronger policies aligned with the SDGs.

In partnership with the Buganda Kingdom’s Children’s Day at Lubiri, children celebrated their culture while speaking out on their rights, with many expressing how group participation encouraged them to be bolder and more confident.

During the Africa Children’s Summit 2025 in Johannesburg, South Africa, ChildFund-supported children joined peers from across the continent to propose policy recommendations and advocate for the establishment of a Children’s Parliament in Uganda, underscoring their role in shaping Africa’s future.

We Want to Be Heard

“When children are brought together, they learn from each other. There is less vulnerability,” said John, 15, during the Buganda Children’s Day event at Lubiri Mengo. “Being with many children gave me the boldness to speak out and the elders actually listened.”

This event was held under the theme “The Importance of Children’s Voices for Buganda’s Brighter Tomorrow,”

Performances, speeches, and child-led activities offered a space where children’s talents and opinions were honoured. With support from ChildFund’s local partners, Kampala Area Federation of Communities and Community Efforts for Child Empowerment, children expressed their views on protection, education and culture.

Some of the children from Kampala Area Federation Of Communities (KAFOC) and Community Efforts for Child Empowerment (CECE) program in Kiboga District who attended the Buganda children’s day event at Lubiri.

Joshua, 15 said, “I learnt that when elders back us and we are organized, we can speak with one voice and they will listen.”

Gary, 13, noted after the Buganda event: “I had never attended an event about children’s rights. But being part of it made me realize how vulnerable we are, especially children with disabilities. We must be protected and we must speak up.”

Spotlight on SDGs

This year’s SDGs summit took place at the Munyonyo Convention Centre in Kampala. During a side event at the 11th African Regional Forum on Sustainable Development. Under the theme “Children and Youth, Job Creation and the Realisation of the SDGs in Africa,” young participants tackled critical issues, from poor quality education to child labour and environmental degradation.

“Children are being used as market vendors, housemaids and garbage collectors,” they told leaders, pushing for stronger enforcement of child labour laws and improved access to sanitation in schools.

Faith, a primary seven pupil from Kole district said, “I used to think such meetings were only for children from Kampala. But being selected was a dream come true. I learnt that many health initiatives by NGOs and government are part of SDG 3. Meeting the minister was the most exciting moment. I told my whole family about it!”

For Alice, a Primary Six pupil, the summit opened a new world of understanding. “My favorite was SDG 5 on gender equality. I learnt that girls and boys are equally important,” she said. “The group discussions made me feel free to speak. It was the first time I saw children actively participating in an adult space.”

Beatrice, a Senior One student, added, “I was nervous at first, seeing children from other countries. But we were all treated equally. That gave me the confidence to speak. I now want to learn more about the SDGs.”

Beatrice makes a presentation during the meeting.

Angel, 17, said the experience boosted her confidence. “I interacted with people from different backgrounds. It made me reflect deeply on my role as a young person. We have the power to change the social and economic barriers we face.”

Martin, 17 said, “I engaged in insightful discussions and networking sessions that helped me understand the SDGs better. I’ll now speak about them more often in my community.”

A continental call to action

In April 2025, the Africa Children’s Summit brought together 200 children from across the continent in Johannesburg, South Africa. Among them were Faith, Garrison, Shanita and Shivan from Uganda, supported by ChildFund Uganda and its local partners.

Held under the theme “Creating a Safe Platform for African Children’s Voices,” the summit aimed to support children to influence policy and shape the future they want. Ugandan delegates presented a compelling national statement and urged stakeholders to help establish a Children’s Parliament in Uganda.

“We need a formal platform where children can engage in policy dialogue, not just in Uganda but across borders,” Garrison emphasized. His message was acknowledged by the President of the South African Children’s Parliament, who pledged support for Uganda’s efforts.

Garrison holds Uganda’s flag during a photo moment with other child delegates and chaperons. 

ChildFund’s child protection and inclusive development work is rooted in a simple but impactful belief.

“Children’s experiences and perspectives can inspire adults to act. By providing safe spaces for participation, children are supported to become advocates and not just participants of change,” said Lydia Akite, the child protection and advocacy manager, ChildFund Uganda.

Children engage in a round table discussion.