On the Day of the African Child, EFSCRJ Calls for Universal Access to WASH

Day of the African Child 2026

Today, EFSCRJ joins Africa in commemorating the Day of the African Child 2026, marking 50 years since the historic Soweto Student Uprising of 16 June 1976. This year’s theme, “Ensuring Universal Access to Water, Sanitation and Hygiene for Every Child in Africa,” reminds us that access to safe water, adequate sanitation, and proper hygiene is not a privilege but a fundamental right of every child.

In the Gambia, persistent challenges including poor water quality, inadequate sanitation facilities, low hygiene adoption, and ongoing electricity blackouts continue to undermine children’s health and well-being.

EFSCRJ therefore calls on the Government to take stronger measures to improve WASH services, constitutionally guarantee the rights to water, sanitation, hygiene and health, strengthen oversight and accountability, and ensure adequate investment in these critical services. Every child deserves to grow up healthy, safe, and with dignity. Read our full statement.