Sessional Paper No. 01 of 2011 on National Children Policy

Abstract

According to National Aids Control Council (NACC) there are approximately 2.4 million children who are orphans, whose rights to survival, development and participation are unfulfilled and /or threatened. The need for a policy on children arises from the government's commitment to address the well being of this vulnerable category of society through a comprehensive and coherent institutional, legislative and enforceable framework. This policy is based on the 4 pillars of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC), the African Charter on the Rights and Welfare of the Child (ACRWC), the Children Act, 200 I and other related instruments on Children, The areas that the policy seeks to address being to Facilitate enjoyment of quality life for all children, Promote healthy and active life through comprehensive health care for all children, Recognize and provide assistance to vulnerable children and their households to guarantee their social economic needs, ensure that special needs of children are met in conflict and disaster situations. Ensure that children are protected from abuse, neglect and exploitation, ensure that children get quality, accessible, inclusive, equitable and affordable education\ to enhance holistic growth and development and participation in the development process at all levels. Strengthen Community programmes and structures in order to keep orphans and vulnerable children in family care and thereby optimize financial and human resources. Use Children's charitable institutions as the last resort and temporary measure for children as they await appropriate placement in alternative family care within the community. Put in place appropriate and effective legislative and institutional implementation framework in support of the National Children Policy.