The African child is not just Africa's future, but also Africa's present. As we commemorate this year's Day of the African Child with the theme, "Planning and Budgeting for Children's Rights: Progress since 2010," we reflect on significant strides made in prioritizing children in national development agendas. Since 2010, we have witnessed expanded access to primary education, improved immunization coverage, and stronger legal frameworks protecting children from exploitation and abuse, while nutrition programs have reduced child mortality rates across the continent. However, gaps remain. The African child deserves more than promises. Their voices matter today, their dreams deserve investment now, and their rights must be protected always. As we move forward, we must strengthen our commitment to child-centered budgeting. When we invest in our children, we invest in a brighter, more prosperous continent for all. #DayOfTheAfricanChild #DAC2025 #AfricaFit4Children #Budget4Children

#ChiomaUzodimma

H.E. Chief Barr. (Dr.) Chioma Uzodimma FIMC, CMC
First Lady of Imo State, Founder of GoodHope Women Flourish Initiative,
and Secretary of Renewed Hope Initiative.