Let’s think big for our children 0 Today is the Day of the Namibian Child and on this day we reflect on the plight of children in the country. Although not a public holiday, this day is nevertheless significant in many ways, including the need to celebrate our children and the impact they have on humanity. Government through the Ministry of Gender Equality and Child Welfare has come up with the theme: “Conflict and Crisis in Africa; Protecting all Children’s Rights” in celebrating this day. The theme in itself reflects on the trials and tribulations of our children and the future leaders of our beautiful continent. Millions of children across the world still face conditions that limit their opportunities to thrive and reach their full potential. Disturbing reports painting grim pictures of children’s rights violated by humanity, especially in war- and conflict-torn countries like Syria, is the order of the day as governments fail to act against these tragedies. Are we doing enough to take care of the Namibian and African children? Perennial problems such as high levels of poverty, poor education, poor healthcare, child labour and child marriages remain a challenge to this day. It is therefore important that legitimate concerns, especially those regarding the welfare of children, are addressed as soon as possible, and not only by parents and teachers. Opportunities for our children should be shaped through national action in the form of laws and policies. Namibia has done relatively well in protecting children’s rights, but this does not mean we should rest on our laurels. We cannot sit comfortably in our air-conditioned offices when the children of this country are severely affected by instances of domestic violence, no access to basic education and poor healthcare, among many other ills. As parents and guardians we should be mindful of the side-effects that such harm can wreak on our children, including the fearful and anxious experiences that overwhelm them. These kids are our most precious asset to guarantee a decent future. So let us join hands in celebrating their lives and hopes for a better future. It is within our power.Let’s think big for our children 0 Today is the Day of the Namibian Child and on this day we reflect on the plight of children in the country. Although not a public holiday, this day is nevertheless significant in many ways, including the need to celebrate our children and the impact they have on humanity. Government through the Ministry of Gender Equality and Child Welfare has come up with the theme: “Conflict and Crisis in Africa; Protecting all Children’s Rights” in celebrating this day. The theme in itself reflects on the trials and tribulations of our children and the future leaders of our beautiful continent. Millions of children across the world still face conditions that limit their opportunities to thrive and reach their full potential. Disturbing reports painting grim pictures of children’s rights violated by humanity, especially in war- and conflict-torn countries like Syria, is the order of the day as governments fail to act against these tragedies. Are we doing enough to take care of the Namibian and African children? Perennial problems such as high levels of poverty, poor education, poor healthcare, child labour and child marriages remain a challenge to this day. It is therefore important that legitimate concerns, especially those regarding the welfare of children, are addressed as soon as possible, and not only by parents and teachers. Opportunities for our children should be shaped through national action in the form of laws and policies. Namibia has done relatively well in protecting children’s rights, but this does not mean we should rest on our laurels. We cannot sit comfortably in our air-conditioned offices when the children of this country are severely affected by instances of domestic violence, no access to basic education and poor healthcare, among many other ills. As parents and guardians we should be mindful of the side-effects that such harm can wreak on our children, including the fearful and anxious experiences that overwhelm them. These kids are our most precious asset to guarantee a decent future. So let us join hands in celebrating their lives and hopes for a better future. It is within our power.