Mauritius Celebrates African Child Day Addressing Water Issues

Mauritius will focus on access to water, sanitation, and environmental protection in its commemoration of African Child Day 2026. The Cabinet, which met on June 5, acknowledged the activities that will be organized for this occasion. Celebrated every year on June 16 by the African Union and its member states, this year’s continental theme for African Child Day is: "Ensuring universal access to water, sanitation and hygiene for every child in Africa."

In Mauritius, the Ministry of Gender Equality and Family Welfare, in collaboration with the National Children’s Council, will organize a commemorative event on June 15 at the La Marie Water Treatment Plant in Vacoas. The locally adopted theme is: "Zanfan Moris: Akter kle dan proteksion dilo ek lanvironman".

Approximately 40 students will participate in this initiative by working on various themes related to climate and environmental issues, including drinking water, wastewater treatment systems, blue economy, and environmental protection. Participants will be encouraged to present projects and artistic creations aimed at raising awareness and motivating them to become agents of change in the face of climate challenges.

The projects will aim to promote sustainable lifestyles and climate resilience through education, contribute to the protection of natural ecosystems, reduce environmental pollution, and encourage the adoption of good water preservation practices.

The initiative also seeks to enhance young people’s understanding of wastewater treatment processes while developing their climate culture and critical thinking from a young age.