Civic education and voter registration are important parts of the process meant to lead to the first post-independence elections in the world’s youngest nation in December. Recently, the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) held a workshop for the 25 members of Eastern Equatoria State’s electoral commission.

“The content of this workshop is important, not least for us women, as we have discussed, among other things, the importance of gender parity and what roles women can play in the electoral process. My participation here will allow me to educate my sisters as well, and encourage them to get involved,” said Davidika Ikai, one of seven women in the commission, which also includes representatives from local authorities, the media, and youth groups.

The workshop covered various aspects of the daunting task of administering successful elections, with international electoral standards, best practices, the relevant legal framework, civic education and voter registration being but a few of them.

Participants expressed their wish for more training sessions on related matters but were assured that local authorities would be able to lead Eastern Equatoria successfully through the complex process.

“We are ready for elections come December 2024. I am saying this because we already have an office awaiting the arrival of the chairperson of our state’s electoral commission,” said Mathew Nehemiah Tombe, Peace and Security Advisor to the local government.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS).

The Embassy of Cuba in Ethiopia hosted the celebrations for Father’s Day at its headquarters, together with Cubans residing in the country and friends of the Embassy of Venezuela.

In a small but emotional activity, the parents present were entertained, thanking them for their important role in the family. 

The activity was also conducive to the meeting of Cubans residing in the country, and the approach to our cultural traditions of commemorating such an important date.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Embassy of the Republic of Cuba in Ethiopia.

In light of the celebration of the Day of the African Child with the theme, ‘providing education for all children in Africa, the time is now!’ UNICEF in Ethiopia reaffirms its commitment to ensuring that every child has access to quality education, regardless of their circumstances.

In addition, as the year has been designated by the AU as the Year of Education for Africa, UNICEF calls upon governments and partners both within and outside the continent to prioritize early childhood education, organize cost-effective events at the national level to galvanize support for education, enhance communication and visibility, and work across sectors to highlight critical factors that contribute to learning.

“Education is not just a privilege; it is a fundamental right for children,” emphasizes Dr Aboubacar Kampo, UNICEF Representative in Ethiopia. “It is the cornerstone for the holistic development of children and the key to unlocking countless opportunities for their future.”

According to recent estimates, approximately 17 million children in Ethiopia, spanning pre-primary, primary, and junior secondary levels, are currently out of school with nearly half of them being girls. Additionally, an estimated 3.5 million children at primary and secondary levels are at risk of dropping out, further exacerbating the education crisis.

As part of its efforts, UNICEF has collaborated closely with the Ministry of Education to develop and implement various educational initiatives, including the Early Childhood Development and Education Policy Framework, comprehensive general education curriculum reform, and the Digital Education Strategy and Implementation Plan. These initiatives aim to enhance the quality of education by building the capacity of teachers, improving digital infrastructure, and equipping students with the necessary skills for the future.

As a leading advocate for children’s rights and well-being, UNICEF is dedicated to addressing the barriers that hinder access to education across the continent. Through strategic partnerships and initiatives, UNICEF is working tirelessly to break these barriers and create a more equitable and inclusive society where every child can thrive.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of UNICEF Ethiopia.

President William Ruto last evening held a bilateral meeting with President Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine on the margins of the peace summit in Bürgenstock, Switzerland.

President Zelensky reaffirmed the desire of Ukraine for peace and his openness to involve all parties in the search for a just and sustainable peace.

President Ruto reiterated Kenya’s unambiguous stand on the principle of equality of nations, inviolability of territorial borders, pacific settlement of conflicts and adherence to the rule of law.

Noting the adverse global consequences of the war in Ukraine, President Ruto underscored the urgency of all parties committing to a path to peace.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of President of the Republic of Kenya.