The African Union Commission, in collaboration with key development partners, has officially launched the 1st African Conference on Childcare, a groundbreaking gathering dedicated to accelerating action towards quality and inclusive childcare systems across the continent.Held from June 18 to 20, 2025, at the African Union Headquarters in Addis Ababa, the conference brings together a diverse group of stakeholders including AU Member States, UN agencies, development partners, civil society organizations, child representatives, and leading childcare experts.
Under the theme “Building Partnerships for Accelerating Action Towards Quality and Inclusive Childcare in Africa,” the conference aims to position childcare as a political, economic, and social priority essential for Africa’s development, gender equality, and human capital growth.
Guest of Honor: Mayor Adanech Abebe
The opening ceremony was graced by Her Excellency Ms. Adanech Abebe, Mayor of Addis Ababa, who served as Guest of Honor. Mayor Abebe has gained international recognition for championing child-focused urban policy through the innovative “Children: The Future Hope of Addis Ababa” initiative. Her administration has trained 5,000 parental coaches, built 1,000 daycare centers, and developed over 12,000 playgrounds, placing children’s wellbeing at the center of city development.
“Childcare is a public investment, not a private burden. We must act now to ensure no child is left behind,” said Mayor Abebe.
Key Areas of Focus
The conference explores six priority themes:
. Global and Regional Evidence on Childcare
. Parenting and Father Engagement
. Models of Childcare Systems in Africa
. Financing Childcare Systems and Services
. Research, Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability, and Learning (MEAL)
. Strengthening Partnerships Across Sectors
High-level officials from UNICEF, WHO, UN Women, UNESCO, and the World Bank are attending, alongside child representatives who are sharing their experiences and perspectives—a first in AU childcare convenings.
Strategic Objectives
The conference aims to:
. Raise political commitment and visibility for childcare
. Strengthen multisectoral partnerships and coordination
. Mobilize funding and resources for system-level childcare
. Share best practices and innovative models across African nations
A Vision for Africa’s Future
As Africa continues to experience rapid demographic shifts and economic transformation, investing in early childhood care and education is seen as both a moral imperative and strategic priority.
“This conference marks a turning point. Quality childcare is the foundation for sustainable development, social justice, and inclusive growth,” said a representative from the African Union Commission.
The outcomes of the conference will inform regional strategies and national action plans to ensure that every African child receives the care and support they deserve.
Media Contact:
Mr. Noel Kenyi
African Union Commission
📧 Email: kenyin@africa-union.org
Follow the conversation: #AfricaChildcare2025
Eyob Salemot
International Correspondent
