June 16th marks the International Day of the African child. Celebrated annually since 1991 when it was initiated by the Organisation of African Unity (now the AU), the day honours the memory of those killed and reminds us of the courage of all who marched in the Soweto Uprising of June 16th 1976 in Apartheid South Africa.

This year the event is celebrated under the theme "Africa Fit for Children: Call for Accelerated Action towards their Survival".

A key part of survivial for many children in Africa is access to health and education services. This access can be particularly limited for children with disabilities. Whether because of stigma or physical barriers, children with disabilities are much less likely to receive assistance from government or civil society programs.