The world is currently grappling with an invisible pandemic, the COVID-19 which has affected every aspect of life and claimed thousands of lives. Over two million people have contracted the highly contagious virus around the world and over 130, 000 have died. The virus does not affect only patients but families, the economic standing of the families and has taken a toll on the general morale in the households. Experts say that without urgent action, this health crisis risks becoming a child rights crisis. To respond UNICEF has launched a global “Agenda for Action” programme to protect the most vulnerable children from the harm of coronavirus. Julianna Lindsey, the UNICEF Country Representative in Rwanda explained, in an interview with the national TV that the global health crisis could actually turn into a full-blown child rights crisis. She says that this could spell children missing out on immunization, education and may expose some to abuse with little or no hope of getting the needed help. Over a third of the world’s population is currently under lockdown. Having people locked indoors with many being unable to generate enough income to provide for their families, Lindsey says might be a tempting lead to more domestic abuse to specifically women and children. On the other hand, since it has been proven that children can also contract the virus, Lindsey explained that information precisely designed for them about the crisis is equally importantly needed. Rwanda on the right track As a UNICEF representative in Rwanda, Lindsey commended efforts being put forward to help children preserves their right in the middle of crisis. In partnership with UNICEF, the Ministry of Health has been putting extra efforts in making sure that children get immunized, malnourished children get identified and get extra support that they need. “We have been working closely with MINISANTE to make sure that routine services for children continue even when we are keeping children and their families indoors away from COVID-19,” Lindsey emphasized. Education being one of the basic child rights, Lindsey commended collaboration between different media platforms and Rwanda Education Board to support continued learning. “In Rwanda, twice a day, children can tune in to radios and take classes. We made sure that classes are completely aligned with the current curriculum,” she explains. In addition to basics, children need to cope with uncertainties around COVID-19 pandemic as much as everyone else. “We have designed posters and cartoons that are specifically designed for children to help them get the gist of what is happening. We are also translating a children book into Kinyarwanda, it is called “My Hero” that was published to help children understand their role in fighting against COVID-19,” she said. As a recommendation, Lindsey reiterated that it is essential to make sure that at least families have access to radio or TV sets since internet does not reach as far. Rwanda has been under lock down for nearly one months but schools have been closed since March 16th. Rwanda Education Board partnered with Telecommunication companies and waived internet charges to access e-learning platforms, launched remote learning on YouTube channel, Radios and TVS.
