A Commitment to Every Child: The No Child Should Grow Up Alone” Campaign

In May 2024, SOS Children’s Villages Malawi, alongside its partners, launched the “No Child Should Grow Up Alone” campaign to address the root causes of unnecessary child-family separation. The initiative has been met with incredible support and enthusiasm, demonstrating the power of collaboration across various sectors.

The campaign kicked off on 6th May with a media briefing, where stakeholders gathered to discuss the importance of advocating children’s rights. This was followed by the official launch of the Continental Report on Children Without Parental Care in Africa on 8th May, an event presided over by the Honorable Minister of Gender, Community Development, and Social Welfare, Jean Muonaowauza Sendeza. The report shed light on the urgent need for political commitment and investment to end child-family separation, receiving overwhelming support from the Ministry of Gender, as well as civil society organizations.

On 15th May, SOS Children’s Villages marked the International Day of Families with a high-profile event led by the Minister. Leaders from all sectors of society signed a pledge to advocate for the protection and well-being of children. The pledges made by these influential leaders reinforced the commitment to ensuring children grow up in stable, loving homes.

Throughout the campaign, SOS Children’s Villages Malawi has worked tirelessly to raise awareness in key areas of the country. On 10th July, a whistle-stop public engagement caravan took place in Mzuzu, where community members and local leaders joined forces to raise awareness about child rights. The event was a powerful demonstration of how local communities can work together to support needy children.

One of the key highlights of the campaign was a meeting with the Blantyre District Council, aimed at fostering partnerships between local authorities, NGOs, and communities. The goal was to enhance child welfare services and create a more supportive environment for children across the city.

Another significant moment came during the campaign’s open day in Ngabu, Chikwawa, when Michael Nyoni, Programme Director for SOS Children’s Villages, revealed that over 16,000 children in the area lacked adequate childcare support. This was a stark reminder of the pressing need for concerted efforts to support vulnerable children. The campaign concluded with a meaningful open day and panel discussion in T/A Chadza, Lilongwe.

The success of the “No Child Should Grow Up Alone” campaign lies in the awareness it has raised and in the tangible actions taken by stakeholders at all levels. From government commitment to local engagement, the campaign has set the stage for a future where every child in Malawi can grow up in a safe and nurturing environment.