As Sierra Leone joined the rest of the continent in commemorating the Day of the African Child on June 16, charitable organization United 4 Salone marked the occasion by bringing joy and support to schoolchildren and vulnerable families through the donation of gifts, educational materials, and relief items.
The organization carried out its activities at St. Joseph’s Primary School on Howe Street in Freetown, where pupils participated in educational and recreational activities designed to celebrate the importance of children’s rights, welfare, and development. In addition to supporting schoolchildren, the team also extended assistance to children and families affected by flooding and mudslides at Six Mile, demonstrating its commitment to vulnerable communities.
The initiative forms part of United 4 Salone’s ongoing efforts to improve the lives of children through education, empowerment, and community support programmes across Sierra Leone.
Speaking during the event, Acting Director of United 4 Salone, Kaday J. Sowe, said the celebration was aimed at reminding children of their value in society while encouraging them to remain hopeful about their future.
She explained that the programme was inspired and spearheaded by the founder of the organization, Kadijah Tejan Nabieu, who currently resides in the United States but remains deeply committed to supporting children and communities in Sierra Leone.
According to Sowe, the founder’s connection to St. Joseph’s Primary School made the event particularly meaningful, as she is a former pupil of the institution and believes strongly in giving back to the community that helped shape her early years.
“This initiative is about showing love, spreading hope, and reminding children that they matter. Our founder is passionate about investing in young people because they represent the future of Sierra Leone. Every child deserves support, encouragement, and opportunities to succeed,” Sowe stated.
As part of the programme, pupils received gifts and interacted with members of the organization in a friendly and supportive environment. The event also featured awareness sessions focusing on health, personal development, and the importance of education.
Executive Member of United 4 Salone, Memunatu Edward Koroma, spoke to the pupils about the significance of the Day of the African Child and encouraged them to adopt healthy habits and good personal hygiene practices.
She emphasized that maintaining proper hygiene is essential for preventing diseases and protecting communities, particularly at a time when countries in the region continue to monitor various public health concerns.
“The health and well-being of children should always be a priority. By practicing good hygiene and making healthy choices, children can protect themselves and contribute to healthier communities,” Koroma told the gathering.
The Head Teacher of St. Joseph’s Primary School, Mrs. Sewa, expressed appreciation to United 4 Salone for selecting the school as part of its African Child Day activities.
She described the support as timely and meaningful, noting that such interventions not only benefit pupils materially but also inspire and motivate them to remain focused on their education.
“We are extremely grateful for this kind gesture. The children are happy and excited, and the support demonstrates that organizations and individuals care about their future and well-being,” she said.
Some of the beneficiaries also shared their excitement. Pupils Abibatu Kamara and Joel Sesay thanked United 4 Salone for the gifts and activities, describing the day as memorable and encouraging.
The event concluded with interactions between pupils, teachers, and members of the organization, reinforcing messages about child protection, access to quality education, and the importance of creating opportunities for every child to reach their full potential.
The Day of the African Child is observed annually on June 16 in memory of the thousands of South African schoolchildren who took part in the 1976 Soweto Uprising in protest against unequal education. The day serves as a reminder of the need to protect children’s rights and promote their welfare, education, and development across Africa. Through its African Child Day celebration, United 4 Salone demonstrated its commitment to supporting children, uplifting vulnerable communities, and contributing to a brighter future for the next generation of Sierra Leoneans
