Kananga: Safe spaces multiply to guide children during holidays

In Kananga, located in the Kasaï-Central province of the Democratic Republic of Congo, safe spaces dedicated to children are experiencing a significant increase during the extended school holidays. These centers, established by multiple organizations, offer students a secure environment that blends learning, recreation, and civic education.

The initiative has been met with approval from parents who are keen to shield their children from the numerous risks associated with idleness. In one such space, organized by the NGO Femme main dans la main pour le développement intégral (FMMDI) in Lukonga, the daily routine for dozens of children is filled with laughter, songs, and games. Far from the dangers of the streets, these students engage in diverse activities that combine relaxation with learning, including educational games, reading sessions, and awareness campaigns on hygiene, health, civics, children's rights, and living together.

"We are given good teachings that can help us in life. And after the teachings, we play. It makes us happy to be here," shared one child participating in the activities. Beyond leisure, these safe spaces also serve a vital protective mission. They help shield children from violence, abuse, and negative influences they might encounter if left unsupervised during the school break.

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We are given good teachings that can help us in life. And after the teachings, we play. It makes us happy to be here.

Joyce Tshibuabua, a facilitator at the FMMDI children's space, highlighted that holidays can be a period of heightened risk for younger children. "During this long holiday period, children can be scattered. Now, with this supervision, we will bring them together, and this will help children avoid experiencing violence," she explained. Parents are equally pleased, viewing these spaces as a means for their children to have useful and enriching holidays under the guidance of qualified educators.

In a city where child protection challenges remain significant, the proliferation of these safe spaces offers a concrete response to the needs of families. By providing children with a secure setting to learn, play, and thrive, these structures contribute to fostering a more protective and supportive environment for their development.

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During this long holiday period, children can be scattered. Now, with this supervision, we will bring them together, and this will help children avoid experiencing violence.