Thirty five years ago many like us took to the streets of Soweto in South Africa and that way this day was born. That reminds me of the movie Sarafina, How many here have watched it? You should consider looking for it.
An African child is a sign of hope for future generations, for the future of our nation, our continent and the whole planet at large. We wish for health and happiness, for wealth and highness. We want to emulate Obama but without having to go to America. Is it asking too much if we have the audacity of hope? We can follow Professor Wangari Mathai’s footsteps and acquire education unconditionally.
I am an African boy. I see stumbling blocks on my way. I have become a soldier in a war I didn’t start, a war to benefit only but a few. I have been smuggled in a merchant ship and forced to work in a textile factory. My small arms are full of blisters. My wails are drowned by the shouts of a cruel master.
I am an African girl. I no longer have friends, who should I trust? They are all forcing their way, even my trusted teacher. I can’t see through the tears that flow from my eyes. I miss my classes at that time every month simply because I can’t afford the costs involved.
We promise to be a symbol of unity of the family. To respect parents, superiors and elders at all times and assist in any case of need. We know it’s our duty to preserve and strengthen social and national solidarity. All we ask for is quality education: The only way we can achieve our dreams and those you have for us; the only avenue to our society’s well-being.
With all said and done, someday we will all look back and say, “THE AFRICAN CHILD” has become, “THE AFRICAN SAVIOUR”.