Somalia Ratifies African Child Rights Charter in Landmark Step

Somalia has officially submitted its instrument of ratification for the African Charter on the Rights and Welfare of the Child to the African Union, marking a major milestone in enhancing child protection frameworks.

The document was presented in Addis Ababa by Somalia’s Minister of Family Affairs and Human Rights Development, Khadija Mohamed Al-Makhzoumi, demonstrating the government’s commitment to safeguarding the rights and well-being of children. The ratification was formally received by AU officials, including Moussa Mohamed Omar and legal counsel Hajer Gueldich.

This step follows the charter’s approval by Somalia’s Federal Parliament in September 2025 and earlier endorsement by the Council of Ministers in November 2024, aligning the country with Africa-wide legal standards on child welfare.

Originally adopted in 1990 by the Organisation of African Unity and entering into force in 1999, the charter serves as the African Union’s principal legally binding framework addressing children’s rights across the continent.

Officials described the ratification as a significant advancement toward protecting future generations, reinforcing Somalia’s broader efforts, which also include its 2015 commitment to the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child.

The move signals Somalia’s intention to strengthen legal safeguards and institutional frameworks for children, positioning the country more firmly within regional and international child protection systems.

Source: Newstimehub