The associations of SOS Children's Villages in West, Central and North Africa have adopted the "Tunis Declaration" to enhance governance and increase impact. The declaration was adopted on September 27, 2026, during the annual meeting of regional management field leaders, which took place on the sidelines of the International Meeting of SOS Children's Villages associations in Hammamet. The meeting brought together leaders of 28 associations from five continents.
The "Tunis Declaration" represents a reference framework for the strategic orientations of the West, Central and North Africa region for the coming years. The declaration focuses on six priority areas, including strengthening institutions, promoting financial independence, and improving program effectiveness. The associations aim to establish boards of directors in 18 associations by 2028 and create a mechanism for guidance and twinning between countries.
The associations also seek to promote financial independence by diversifying funding sources and establishing a regional task force for resource mobilization. Additionally, they aim to improve program effectiveness by harmonizing monitoring and evaluation indicators and promoting integrated approaches in mental health and youth participation. The declaration also emphasizes the importance of regional coordination and strengthening the role of regional representatives in the International Council.
The "Tunis Declaration" was adopted in response to the challenges facing children in Africa. According to estimates, 35 million children in Africa are deprived of family care, and over 70% of African countries lack comprehensive policies and legislation on alternative care. The West, Central and North Africa region comprises 28 associations, with only 10 having a functioning board of directors.
The adoption of the "Tunis Declaration" reflects the commitment of SOS Children's Villages associations in West, Central and North Africa to enhance governance and increase their impact on children in African countries and communities. The declaration is expected to be presented officially during the next General Assembly of SOS Children's Villages International in October 2026.
The associations emphasized that the "Tunis Declaration" embodies their shared will to strengthen governance and increase their impact on children. They also stressed their commitment to speaking with one voice within the International Union. The declaration is seen as a crucial step towards improving the lives of children in Africa.
The International Meeting of SOS Children's Villages associations in Hammamet brought together leaders of 28 associations from five continents. The meeting provided a platform for discussions on the challenges facing children in Africa and the role of SOS Children's Villages in addressing these challenges. The adoption of the "Tunis Declaration" is expected to have a positive impact on the lives of children in West, Central and North Africa.
Key points
- Associations from SOS Children's Villages in West, Central and North Africa adopt "Tunis Declaration" to enhance governance and increase impact.
- The declaration focuses on six priority areas, including strengthening institutions, promoting financial independence, and improving program effectiveness.
- The adoption of the declaration reflects the commitment of SOS Children's Villages associations to enhance governance and increase their impact on children in African countries and communities.