We are an independent, not for profit, Pan-African Institute of policy research and dialogue on the African child. ACPF was established with the conviction that putting children first on the public agenda is fundamental for the realization of their rights and wellbeing and for bringing about lasting social and economic progress in Africa.
ACPF’s work is rights based, inspired by universal values and informed by global experiences and knowledge and is committed to Internationalism. Its work is guided by the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, The African Charter on the Rights and Welfare of the child, and other regional and international human rights instruments. ACPF aims to specifically contribute to improved knowledge on children in Africa; monitor and report progress; identify policy options; provide a platform for dialogue; collaborate with governments, inter-governmental organisations and civil society in the development and implementation of effective pro-child policies and programmes and also promote a common voice for children in and out of Africa.
Our vision is “An Africa where every child enjoys all rights and develops to reach his or her full human potential.” Our mission is to work towards “A More Child-friendly and Accountable Africa.”
Our work is guided by the following principles and values:
- Rights-based. We are guided by the principle of the Best Interest of the Child and by the rights and obligations imbedded in African and international human rights instruments;
- Realism and context-relevant. We recognise the need to situate our analyses and actions within the specific socio-cultural, economic and political African realities that impact on children;
- Truth. We always remain faithful to Truth that, on one hand, appreciates the positive in our cultural values and beliefs but, on the other hand, exposes practices and beliefs that are manifestly harmful to children; we back our policy advocacy work wherever possible with knowledge and statistical and scientific evidence;
- African ownership. We take pride in our past achievements but we take responsibility for our present condition and the road ahead; and
- Constructive engagement. We engage with Governments constructively by showing the gaps in policy and practice, and by providing support and showcasing lessons from good practices.