Children in Salima District have urged government leaders to take stronger action in addressing the effects of climate change and protecting natural resources, citing concerns about their future and well-being.
The appeal was made on Thursday during a session of the Children’s Parliament held in Salima, where children voiced their challenges and called for immediate interventions.
Speaker of the Children’s Parliament in Salima, Esther Madimbo, emphasized that children are among the most affected by climate change and warned that their future is at risk if urgent measures are not taken.
World Vision Malawi, the organizing partner of the session, said it aims to ensure that children are not left out of important conversations. Project Officer responsible for livelihoods and resilience in Salima and Dedza, Adamson Kamwana, said the organization is committed to child-centered approaches.
“World Vision Malawi is a child-focused organization, and we realize that there are times people make decisions for children without consulting them. So, we said no—let’s create a platform where children express their problems and engage directly with duty bearers,” said Kamwana.
He added that platforms like the Children’s Parliament are crucial, especially now as children face challenges related to climate change, education, and other pressing issues.
Chairperson of the Parliamentary Committee on Social and Community Affairs, Savel Kafwafwa, commended the initiative and called for increased government support. He said the government should begin funding such sessions independently instead of relying solely on donors.
“I suggested that the government increase funding toward child protection and education, especially the School Improvement Grant. If proper budgeting is done, we can support children’s parliaments across all primary schools in constituencies,” said Kafwafwa.
He further highlighted that the platform not only helps children express their needs but also inspires them. “Over the past six years, we’ve seen children who participated in these parliaments progress to secondary school and even college. It motivates them to dream of becoming future leaders.”
Member of Parliament for Salima North West, Enock Phale, and other local leaders were also in attendance, showing their support for child participation in governance and climate advocacy.
(By Blessings Tsoka)