Ugandan child representatives who took part in the Africa Children’s Summit 2025 have returned home with a bold and passionate call: establish a Children’s Parliament in Uganda.
The Summit, hosted in Johannesburg, South Africa, was a child-led event convened by the South African Government through the Department of Social Development, in partnership with the Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund. It brought together child representatives from across the continent to deliberate on pressing issues affecting children, with a strong focus on education this year.
Uganda’s delegation, composed of bright and outspoken young leaders, shared their reflections with High Sound for Children upon their return. Among them was Shanita Nassanga, who expressed both pride in representing her country and frustration at what she described as a "missed opportunity" for Uganda.
“We need a Children’s Parliament in Uganda,” Shanita said. “We got so embarrassed when we got to the summit and found that many countries have parliaments for children. We have shared our concern with the chairperson of the summit so that he contacts the powers that be in Uganda.”
According to the Ugandan delegates, the Children’s Parliaments in other African countries are offering young people a formal platform to debate, voice their concerns, and present resolutions to policymakers—something they feel is urgently needed back home.
At the summit, Ugandan representatives made several key demands on the theme of education. They called for an end to all barriers preventing children from accessing quality education, including poverty, gender inequality, and unsafe school environments. Most notably, they emphasized the need for inclusive education systems that accommodate and empower children with disabilities.
“Our schools must be for every child, no matter their background or ability,” said one of the representatives. “Children with disabilities have the same dreams and rights, and they should not be left behind.”
Their participation at the summit not only highlighted the passion and leadership of Ugandan children but also underscored the gaps that still exist in ensuring child participation in national decision-making.
The call for a Children’s Parliament is gaining support among child rights advocates and civil society organizations. Many believe such a platform would not only amplify the voices of children but also build a generation of informed and responsible citizens.
As the conversation continues, Uganda’s young leaders remain hopeful that their voices will be heard—not just at summits, but in the halls of power back home.