South Africa
South Africans called to act, not talk, this Children’s Month─── ZENANDE MPAME 15:18 Mon, 03 Nov 2025
As South Africa celebrates National Children’s Month in November and World Children’s Day on the 20th, the message of this year’s Children’s Month is clear: one small action can make a big difference.
The Hold My Hand campaign calls on citizens nationwide to take up a simple yet powerful challenge: “Just one thing”. The campaign encourages South Africans to look around their homes, schools, workplaces, and communities and ask: “What’s one thing I can do for children?”
National Children’s Day was celebrated on Sunday (1/11). This year’s Children’s Month has significance as South Africa welcomes Children20 (C20), an engagement group forming part of the G20 Social Summit, a global first.
South Africa celebrates National Children’s Month in November and World Children’s Day on the 20th. Photo: Facebook
The initiative gives children a platform to actively participate in discussions on key issues affecting them, including health, well-being, digital safety, and environmental protection.
“In November, we celebrate children; it is a golden opportunity to tell our children, our young ones, and our teenagers across the country: You are our pride, the rock upon which we build our nation,” said accelerated programme of action for children leader Rose September.
“In collaboration with the presidency … we are working with thousands of children through a communication campaign that amplifies and listens to children’s voices. We ask everyone: What is the one thing you can do for children?”
The campaign says people can start by adding to a reading corner at a local early childhood development centre or school, speak out against abuse in your community, buy a nutritious food parcel for a family in need, or simply let a child know they are loved and safe.
The C20 will see children participating and contributing to the discussions around pertinent issues that include their health and wellbeing, digital and online safety, the environment, safety and protection, and many other issues that are top concerns for children.
“Over the past year, children have spoken up and they told us what they want: to feel safe, to be seen, listened to, and to be supported,” said Hold My Hand communications lead Angela Swart-Buchanan. “Most of all, they want to be involved and to participate at all levels, from shaping global decisions to everyday actions that make a difference.”
• Have a news tip to share? Phone or whatsapp the OFM News Hotline: 066 487 1427.
