President Daniel Chapo has called for the comprehensive protection of children to be treated as a collective responsibility shared by all of Mozambican society, making the appeal at the closing ceremony of the country's two-week child welfare period, according to newspaper O País.
The ceremony was held at the official presidential residence, Ponta Vermelha, which was opened to children from various regions of the country by the head of state and first lady Gueta Chapo. The event brought together cultural and educational activities in a celebratory gathering.
In his address, President Chapo expressed gratitude to parents, guardians, educators and citizens at large for their commitment to the care and development of Mozambican children, stressing that the contribution of all members of society is essential to ensuring a protective and nurturing environment for children.
The head of state also acknowledged the work carried out by social assistance institutions, orphanages and organisations dedicated to child protection. He highlighted the efforts of professionals and volunteers who contribute daily to the well-being of children across the national territory.
Contextualising the initiative, Daniel Chapo noted that the event marked the conclusion of the two-week child welfare period, which began on 1 June — International Children's Day — and closed on 16 June, African Child Day. The period was marked by a range of activities held throughout the country.
"The message we want to leave with parents, guardians and the children who today represent all the children of this country, from Rovuma to Maputo and from Zumbo to the Indian Ocean, is that protecting children is everyone's responsibility: parents, guardians and all those who care for children," the President declared.
President Chapo also evoked the legacy of Mozambique's first post-independence president, Samora Machel, underscoring the importance of childhood in national development. "As our beloved President Samora Machel used to say, a child is a flower that never withers," he stated.
Daniel Chapo explained that the decision to welcome children to Ponta Vermelha originated with first lady Gueta Chapo, who championed the special celebration. "That is why Mama Gueta, our mother, decided to open Ponta Vermelha — the home of all Mozambicans — so that we could mark this day with the children, as part of the two-week child welfare celebrations," he said.
Source: Diário Económico
Original article: https://www.diarioeconomico.co.mz/2026/06/15/desenvolvimento-2/presidente-da-republica-apela-ao-reforco-da-proteccao-da-crianca/
