C-SEMA at the African Union in Shaping Africa's Future for Children.

From 16th –17th July this year, C-SEMA was represented by her Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Michael Marwa at the ARISE Africa II Validation convening held at the African Union Headquarters in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

The convening brought together African Union Member States, regional institutions, United Nations agencies, civil society organizations, child rights advocates, and children themselves to validate two landmark continental frameworks: the Common Africa Position on Ending Violence Against Children (CAP-EVAC) and the African Union Model Law on Online Child Safety. As part of the distinguished delegates, C-SEMA contributed to shaping policies that will guide how African countries strengthen child protection systems, prevent violence against children, improve access to child-friendly services, and create safer digital environments for every child across the continent.

Throughout the discussions, it was inspiring to witness governments and partners working collectively towards a shared vision of an Africa where every child can grow up safe, protected, and empowered.

One of the most memorable moments of the convening was hearing directly from children who shared their lived experiences, the challenges they face, and their aspirations for a safer Africa. Their voices reminded us that meaningful child participation is not optional it is essential. Policies designed for children must also be shaped by children, ensuring that their perspectives remain at the heart of decision-making.

The meeting also focused on strengthening prevention systems, sustainable financing, accountability mechanisms, data and innovation, integrated referral pathways, and coordinated child protection services.

 “When given the floor at the convening Mr. Marwa elaborated that C-SEMA contributes to promoting community-based child protection, strengthening reporting mechanisms through the 116 National Child Helpline and by enhancing collaboration across sectors, and ensuring that vulnerable children in Tanzania can access the support they need anytime they feel that they need to speak to someone on matters that concerns them.”

C-Sema's Chief Executive Mr. Michael Marwa.

A significant milestone of the convening was the validation of the African Union Model Law on Online Child Safety. As digital technologies continue to transform children's lives, African countries are taking decisive steps to address online exploitation, cyberbullying, harmful digital content, and other emerging risks while safeguarding children's rights and promoting responsible digital platforms.

Another proud moment for Tanzania was the launch of the Tanzania Safe to Learn Diagnostic National Exercise Findings Report, showcasing the country's ongoing commitment to creating safer learning environments for children and strengthening violence prevention initiatives within schools and communities. C-SEMA is glad to have taken part and contributed to this study represented by her Director of Programmes Ms. Fatuma Kamramba.

As the convening concluded, Member States validated recommendations that will shape future African Union policies and support national reforms across the continent. For C-SEMA, participation in ARISE Africa II reinforces our responsibility to champion these commitments in Tanzania.

As the country's leading organization on Child Online Safety and Protection, and as a member of the National Child Online Protection Task Force, C-SEMA is committed to leading national dialogue and multi-stakeholder engagement to advance the adoption of both the Common Africa Position on Ending Violence Against Children (CAP-EVAC) and the African Union Model Law on Online Child Safety.

Working closely with Government, regulators, development partners, civil society, the private sector, and children themselves, we will support the domestication of these continental frameworks into Tanzania's policies, legal frameworks, and implementation mechanisms.

ARISE Africa II delegation.

Through this collaborative approach, we aim to ensure that Africa's commitments translate into tangible action that strengthens child protection systems and creates a safer digital and physical environment for every child in Tanzania.

Prepared by C-Sema's Communication Team.