making and in different levels. World Vision would where possible work within countries on the recommendations which are important to end violence against children. She concluded her speech by stressing that it takes all of us to end violence against children in conflict and crisis. Finally, Mrs Dikéré Marie-Christine BOCOUM made a launching speech. She highlighted the findings and the recommendations of the Study and stressed on the need to enhance State accountability in this regard. She extended her appreciation to the Government of Mauritius for creating the opportunity to launch the study. She mentioned that the ACERWC extends its profound thanks to those who made the Study a success including the children who bravely shared their experience; government officials of Kenya, Nigeria, South Sudan, and Somalia; the AU Peace and Security Department; ACERWC partner organizations mainly World Vision, European Union, and UNICEF; and the Pan-African Research Services team. Mrs BOCOUM then officially launched the Continental Study on the Impact of Conflict and Crisis on Children in Africa. 14. Pledging session The Experience Sharing Forum was concluded by pledges Member States, Representative of the East African Community and the Network of African National Human Rights Institutions made following the discussions on ratifications, reservations, and implementation of the African Children’s Charter. 14.1. Pledges on Ratification The Government of South Sudan pledged to speed up the ratification of the African Children’s Charter and work together with developmental partners and UN agencies for financial and technical support. The Government of Somalia promised to invite the ACERWC for an advocacy mission to create awareness among the cabinet and parliamentarians on the importance of ratification of the Charter. To this end, it was promised that the Government will develop an action plan and timeline for the ratification of the Charter. Furthermore, the Government pledged to develop a Child Act between 2018 and 2019. The Government of Tunisia pledged to accelerate the ratification process of the Charter and further to submit its reports. It also vowed to raise awareness on the Charter. 14.2. Pledges on Reservations The Government of Egypt pledged to consider the withdrawal of reservation Egypt has entered on article 21(2) of the Charter on the prohibition of marriage and betrothal of persons below the age of 18. 27 | P a g e

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