Staff Reporter
Victoria Falls will tomorrow host children and delegates from seven SADC countries for the 2024 Regional World Children’s Day celebrations.
The commemorations, co-hosted by Zimbabwe in partnership with UNICEF, bring together children and delegates from Botswana, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa, Zambia, and Zimbabwe in an event centred on celebrating and advocating for children’s rights.
The main festivities will take place at Baobab Primary School, strategically scheduled to minimize disruption to ongoing learning and examination activities.
Anticipation is high as the resort city experiences increased traffic with the arrival of delegations, including senior officials from Namibia and children from five countries.
The remaining delegates are expected to arrive later today and early tomorrow.
Public Service, Labour, and Social Welfare Minister July Moyo, his Permanent Secretary Simon Masanga, and Matabeleland North Provincial Affairs and Devolution Permanent Secretary Sithandiwe Ncube are already in Victoria Falls coordinating final preparations.
The event's buildup includes engaging activities for children, such as golf and chess tournaments at Elephant Hills Golf Course and Mosi-oa-Tunya High School.
Winners of these tournaments will be honoured at a dinner hosted by First Lady Dr. Auxillia Mnangagwa this evening at Elephant Hills Resort.
In a preparatory meeting chaired by Minister Moyo yesterday, it was highlighted that all logistics, including transport, accommodation, and meals for the children, have been meticulously arranged.
“We will assemble at Elephant Hills for the children’s dinner, and after a brief celebration, ensure the children retire early for rest,” Minister Moyo stated.
Tomorrow, a road march by children from 7 AM to 9 AM will precede the main program, expected to be attended by President Mnangagwa and representatives of the participating SADC nations.
Following the official proceedings, 570 children will embark on a tour of the Victoria Falls Rainforest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the world's Seven Natural Wonders.
The day's events will conclude with the monumental lighting of the Flame of Hope on the Victoria Falls Bridge, officiated by Vice President General (Retired) Dr. Constantino Chiwenga.
The 2024 commemorations aim to build on previous commitments and calls for- action, focusing on inclusive education, climate action, support for children with disabilities, and the broader upholding of children’s rights.
