Zimbabwe this week hosted a global reunion of former humanitarian leaders from the UNICEF, bringing together retired staff committed to advancing children’s rights and welfare around the world.
The gathering, held in Victoria Falls, marked 35 years of the XUNICEF Association, a global network of former UNICEF staff who continue to advocate for children’s rights after leaving active service.
Etona Ekole of UNICEF joined the meeting, which provided a platform for participants to reflect on progress made in improving the lives of children while also discussing persistent challenges facing young people in Zimbabwe.
“In Victoria Falls, UNICEF joined the global XUNICEF reunion, bringing together retired UNICEF humanitarian leaders whose hearts remain committed to child rights,” the organisation said.
Zimbabwe continues to face several challenges affecting children, including poverty, climate shocks and gaps in health and education services.
According to UNICEF data, nearly half of Zimbabwe’s population is under the age of 18, placing increasing pressure on social services and child protection systems.
During the meeting, participants exchanged insights on the situation of children in Zimbabwe and emphasised the importance of sustained investment in key sectors such as health, education and child protection.
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“The meeting was an opportunity to share progress and challenges for children in Zimbabwe, and to highlight the urgent need for sustained investment in their health, education, protection and climate resilience,” UNICEF said.
The discussions also explored opportunities for the XUNICEF Association to support initiatives aimed at strengthening climate resilience in schools.
Among the ideas raised were collaborations on climate-smart school programmes involving conservation and tourism partners such as Wild Horizons.
Participants highlighted the continued role that former UNICEF staff can play in advocacy, partnerships and storytelling to raise awareness about the needs of children globally.
“We also explored opportunities for XUNICEF to support initiatives such as climate-smart schools through visibility, storytelling and potential support,” the organisation said.
Officials said the experience and networks of former UNICEF staff remain an important resource in mobilising support for programmes aimed at improving children’s lives.
“The wisdom, voice and continued commitment of former UNICEF staff remain powerful in advancing child rights,” UNICEF added.
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