Children call for increased investment in child-friendly WASH services during the 2026 Day of the African Child
June 16, 2026
Zambia joined the rest of Africa in commemorating the Day of the African Child (DAC) 2026 under the theme: “Ensuring Universal Access to Water, Sanitation and Hygiene for Every Child in Africa.“
Commemorations took place across provincial capitals, bringing together children, government officials, cooperating partners, civil society organizations, traditional leaders, teachers, and community members to reflect on the importance of ensuring that every child has access to safe water, adequate sanitation facilities, and proper hygiene services.
The celebrations provided a platform for children to express their views, share their experiences, and call for increased investment in child-friendly WASH services in schools, health facilities, and communities. Through speeches, cultural performances, exhibitions, debates, and interactive discussions, children highlighted the critical link between access to water and their health, education, dignity, and overall well-being.
As we commemorate this important day, we reaffirm our collective responsibility to protect and promote children’s rights and to ensure that no child is left behind in accessing essential water, sanitation, and hygiene services.