Press Release on the Occasion of the Day of the African Child 16 June 2026
Theme: "Ensuring Every Child's Access to Water, Sanitation and Hygiene"
The Republic of Sudan, represented by the Ministry of Social Development and the Child Welfare Council of Khartoum State, joins African nations in commemorating the Day of the African Child, observed annually on 16 June. This year’s celebration is held under the theme adopted by the African Committee of Experts on the Rights and Welfare of the Child (ACERWC): “Ensuring Every Child’s Access to Water, Sanitation and Hygiene.”
This theme highlights the fundamental rights of children to life, health, and development, while emphasizing the importance of providing a safe and healthy environment that guarantees every child—particularly children in Khartoum State—sustainable access to clean drinking water, sanitation services, and proper hygiene as essential measures for protection against diseases and epidemics.
Siddiq Hassan Farini, Acting Minister of Social Development of Khartoum State,Siddiq Hassan Farini, reaffirmed the Ministry’s full commitment, in collaboration with national and international partners, to strengthening community resilience and ensuring the provision of basic needs for children amid the exceptional circumstances facing the state. He stressed that investing in children’s health and a clean environment is an investment in the future of the nation.
For her part, Zainab Ahmed Gouda, Secretary-General of the Child Welfare Council of Khartoum State, emphasized that water, sanitation, and environmental health remain among the Council’s top priorities for protecting children, particularly those living in shelters and host communities. She noted that this year’s commemoration serves as a catalyst for intensifying health awareness campaigns and implementing water supply projects to ensure that children fully enjoy their rights.
The Ministry of Social Development and the Child Welfare Council of Khartoum State call upon all organizations, relevant institutions, and civil society organizations to join efforts and direct support toward projects and programs that serve children’s issues and contribute to improving health and environmental services for children.
May God protect our children and safeguard their future. Wishing the children of Africa and Sudan continued well-being, security, and prosperity.
Media Office
Ministry of Social Development
16 June 2026