Virtual – 9 December 2021 – Lift Africa Foundation contributes to the inaugural Global Forum
for Children and Youth (CY21), advancing evidence and perspectives on the urgent need to
strengthen protection systems for children and expand meaningful youth leadership in ending
violence worldwide. The Forum is convened by UNICEF and the Governments of Botswana and
Sweden, bringing together policymakers, young people, civil society organisations and
international institutions.
Representing civil society voices from Nigeria, Founder Aisha Hamman participates in a 90
minute spotlight session organised by the End Violence Partnership under the theme “Together
to #ENDviolence — at home, at school, online, and within the community.” The session features
survivor testimonies, insights from government leaders and a global review of progress and
emerging challenges.
Framing Violence Against Children as a Systemic Governance Issue
Lift Africa Foundation emphasises that violence against children is not only a protection concern
but a systemic governance challenge shaped by weak institutions, socio-economic pressures,
harmful norms and inconsistent policy implementation. The Foundation advocates for stronger
accountability mechanisms, improved coordination between governments and communities, and
consistent investment in frontline protection services.
Key Areas of Advocacy Contributed by Lift Africa Foundation
- Strengthening structural interventions
The Foundation calls for integrated child protection systems that address root causes—poverty,
family instability, lack of social services and limited access to justice. - Expanding youth leadership in policy spaces
Lift Africa stresses that young people must be treated as co-creators of solutions and not as
peripheral stakeholders. Their lived experiences are essential to shaping effective prevention and
response systems. - Supporting community-centred responses
Lift Africa highlights how community structures, when properly supported, play a crucial role in
identifying risks, reporting cases and protecting vulnerable children. - Ensuring inclusive and sustainable policy frameworks
The Foundation advocates for national and local policies that recognise diverse child protection
needs, strengthen reporting pathways and ensure that survivors receive timely, safe and trauma
informed support.
Bringing Local Realities into Global Dialogue
Drawing from its work across Northern Nigeria, Lift Africa Foundation shares insights into how
violence, displacement, economic hardship and gender inequality interact to heighten children’s
vulnerability. The Foundation emphasises that efforts to end violence must be grounded in the
realities of communities, particularly those affected by conflict, poverty and systemic
marginalisation.
The Children’s Manifesto and Moving Forward
The session also witnesses the launch of the Children’s Manifesto, which outlines global
demands for safety, participation and protection ahead of the “Together to #ENDviolence”
Leaders’ Event. Lift Africa Foundation affirms its commitment to supporting the implementation
of these priorities at community and national levels.
Lift Africa Foundation’s Commitment
Through its global engagement at CY21, Lift Africa Foundation reinforces its commitment to:
- advancing child protection systems
- strengthening youth participation in governance
- supporting survivors and vulnerable children
- promoting accountability within state institutions
- contributing evidence to global policy processes
The Foundation continues to align its national programs and advocacy with global child rights
standards, ensuring that children and young people remain at the centre of policy reform and
community development efforts.