UNICEF STRENGTHENS LINKS WITH AFRICAN CHILDREN

07/10/2009

Unicef has renewed its commitment to helping children across Africa by focusing on its partnership with the African Union (AU).

A meeting between AU representatives and El Hadj As Sy, Unicef's regional director for Eastern and Southern Africa, has led to discussions on how to tackle the numerous issues faced by African children.

In particular, the director is hoping to strengthen projects aimed at improving health and economic standards across the continent.

"It is pertinent for us to demonstrate our serious commitment and collaboration, working with the AU as an entry point into value-added continental level policy advocacy, implementation and engagement with political leaders for the benefit of children," he added.

While professor Jean Pierre Onvehoun Ezin explained that the AU is keen to develop more joint strategies with Unicef to provide better support to Africa's young.

The AU, established in 2002, consists of representatives from 52 African states and is the successor to the Organisation of African Unity.

Written by John Curtis.VSO Canada