Children’s rights in Southern Africa are deeply entangled with the region’s socio-economic, political, and cultural dynamics, creating a multifaceted landscape that profoundly impacts children’s well-being and opportunities. Despite legal frameworks like the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) and the African Charter on the Rights and Welfare of the Child (ACRWC), the consistent implementation and enforcement of these rights often lag, perpetuating challenges and impeding their full realisation (United Nations, 1989; African Union, 1990).
The presentation was guided by Hettler’s wellness theory and the UBUNTU theory as a lens. The wellness theory focuses on holistic well-being, emphasising the physical, emotional, social, intellectual, career, and spiritual dimensions. On the other hand, the UBUNTU theory emphasises the interconnectedness of humanity. It promotes the idea that individuals thrive through their relationships with others, emphasising compassion, empathy, and community. The phrase “ I am because we are” encapsulates its core belief in the collective well-being of society. This theory intersects with children’s rights in several ways. Firstly, it underscores the importance of nurturing environments for children to grow and thrive, emphasising their interconnectedness with their families and communities.
A pivotal issue affecting children’s rights in Southern Africa is the unequal access to education and healthcare services, particularly among marginalised communities. Scarce resources and inadequate infrastructure disproportionately affect these communities, worsening existing disparities and impeding children’s overall development. The absence of quality education denies children avenues for personal growth, societal integration, and prospects. Similarly, substandard healthcare services imperil children’s health and well-being, heightening health inequalities and thwarting their potential (UNICEF, 2021; Save the Children, 2020).
Additionally, child marriage and early pregnancy pose significant threats to children’s rights, especially for girls. These detrimental practices deprive girls of their childhoods, education, and prospects, perpetuating cycles of poverty and inequality. Cultural beliefs and entrenched gender norms that prioritise boys’ education and perpetuate patriarchal structures compound these challenges, complicating effective interventions (Plan International, 2021).
While international instruments and regional initiatives stress the significance of a rights-based approach to tackle these issues, notable gaps in implementation endure. Persistent advocacy, mechanisms for accountability, and allocation of resources are imperative to bridge these divides and ensure effective protection and promotion of children’s rights (UNICEF, 2021).
Moreover, socio-economic inequalities, fueled by poverty and disparity, deeply impact children’s well-being in Southern Africa. Children from marginalised backgrounds encounter multiple hurdles in accessing their rights, including inadequate housing, food insecurity, and limited access to basic services. Political instability and governance issues further heighten vulnerabilities, constraining governments’ capacity to address these challenges effectively.
Cultural beliefs and practices also play a significant role in perpetuating inequalities and complicating efforts to safeguard children’s rights. Traditional gender norms and harmful practices such as female genital mutilation and early marriage continue to undermine girls’ rights and perpetuate cycles of discrimination and violence. Addressing these cultural barriers necessitates a nuanced approach involving engagement with communities, religious leaders, and traditional authorities to challenge harmful practices and promote gender equality (Save the Children, 2020).
Comprehensive strategies that integrate legal frameworks, community engagement, and advocacy are indispensable to drive systemic change and empower children in Southern Africa. Collaborative action at national, regional, and international levels is pivotal to confront systemic barriers, foster accountability, and establish an environment conducive to the thriving of every child.
Expanding on the current scenario underscores the specific challenges that face the region in fully realising children’s rights. Southern Africa’s rich tapestry of cultures, languages, and socio-economic contexts adds layers of complexity to addressing children’s rights issues. The region grapples with high levels of poverty, unemployment, and inequality, intensifying the hurdles faced by children and their families.
Child protection remains a paramount concern in the region, with children facing various forms of abuse, exploitation, and violence. Despite efforts to bolster legal frameworks and establish child protection systems, implementation gaps persist. Feeble law enforcement, limited access to justice, and cultural norms condoning violence against children contribute to underreporting and impunity for perpetrators. Children experiencing abuse or exploitation often confront stigma and discrimination, further impeding their access to support services and justice.
In response to these challenges, governments, civil society organisations, and international partners in Southern Africa have endeavoured to fortify child protection systems, enhance access to education and healthcare, and address harmful cultural practices. Initiatives such as awareness campaigns, community-based interventions, and legal reforms have been implemented to advance children’s rights and shield them from harm. Nonetheless, sustained efforts and increased investment are imperative to tackle the root causes of children’s rights violations and ensure every child in Southern Africa can fully enjoy their rights and realise their potential.
While strides have been made in advancing children’s rights in Southern Africa, significant challenges endure. Addressing these challenges demands a multifaceted approach that tackles the underlying causes of children’s rights violations, fortifies child protection systems, and enhances access to quality education and healthcare for all children. By prioritising children’s rights and well-being, Southern Africa can forge a brighter future for its children and foster more inclusive and equitable societies for all.
- Racheal Mafumbate, University of Eswatini. This presentation is part of the seminars organized by the Global Citizenship and Children’s Rights Network (GLOCCRIN).