By George Cooper
Bomi County: The Bomi Regional Office of the Campaign for the Establishment of the War and Economic Crimes Court (WECC) in Liberia on Tuesday joined the rest of African in commemorating the Day of the African Child, using the occasion to advocate for improved access to safe drinking water for children across the country.
The event, held in Bomi County, brought together children, community leaders, civil society organizations, and advocates who highlighted the urgent need to address challenges affecting the health and well-being of Liberia’s children.
Speaking as a guest speaker, WECC Consultant John Stewart stressed that access to clean and safe drinking water is a fundamental right of every child and called on the government and development partners to increase investments in the water sector.
“Children cannot thrive, learn, and achieve their full potential when they are deprived of safe drinking water. Providing clean water is not a privilege; it is a basic right that must be guaranteed for every child”, Stewart said.
He noted that many communities, particularly in rural Liberia, continue to face serious challenges in accessing safe drinking water, exposing children to preventable diseases and negatively impacting their education and development.
Stewart urged policymakers to implement sustainable measures aimed at expanding water infrastructure and ensuring that every child has access to clean drinking water.
This year’s observance was held under the theme, Accessing Safe Drinking Water for Every African Child. The Day of the African Child is commemorated annually on June 16 to honor the children who participated in the 1976 Soweto Uprising in South Africa and to promote awareness of children’s rights and welfare across the continent.
Participants at the event also renewed calls for collective action to protect children’s rights and ensure they grow up in safe, healthy, and supportive environments.
The celebration concluded with stakeholders reaffirming their commitment to advocating for policies and interventions that place the needs of children at the center of national development.
