**Esteemed Representatives and Collaborators of the Ministry of Energy and Water,
Distinguished Representatives of the Sponsoring Companies of the First Children’s Festival “Embracing the Future,”
Dear Parents and Guardians of these Amazing Boys and Girls Gathered Here:**
It is a great privilege to speak to you today as we come together to celebrate the Day of the African Child, which takes place tomorrow, June 16.
The phrase “To children, everything they deserve” is a timeless reminder that should inspire us all in our role as adults.
In line with this spirit, the Ministry of Energy and Water, through its commitment to social responsibility, is proud to support this festival titled “Embracing the Future.” This event is designed to bring parents, children, guardians, and our sector’s workforce together in an engaging and educational setting.
Reflecting on our own journeys from childhood to adulthood, we owe immense gratitude to our parents, who, despite challenges, laid the groundwork for us to become who we are today.
It is now our duty to nurture and support these young ones, striving to meet their spiritual and material needs while honoring the 11 Rights of the Child endorsed by the Government of Angola in 2007. These rights include survival, food security and nutrition, birth registration, early childhood education, primary education, vocational training, juvenile justice, HIV/AIDS prevention, protection against violence, social welfare, and family development.
Dear Educators and Guardians,
We must redouble our efforts to guide these children as they grow, providing them with the foundation for better vocational, academic, and professional pathways. As the saying goes, “It is in youth that the tree is shaped.”
To our young friends here, let me ask: what do you aspire to be in the future?
- Electrical technicians?
- Water technicians?
As someone entrusted with overseeing the electricity and water sectors, my hope is that many of these children will one day become skilled professionals in these fields. Their contributions will be vital to operating and maintaining the country’s existing and forthcoming infrastructures, such as dams, power transmission lines, electricity and water production facilities, and commercial enterprises—critical components of our nation’s energy and water industries.
I am thrilled to share that the celebrated musician Maya Cool, a cherished figure in our country’s children’s music, has joined us to enrich this joyful occasion.
In closing, I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the event organizer Celso Mambo, the animation team, Clown Tawas, musician Neru Americano, and the sector’s leaders and technicians for their unwavering commitment.
A special thanks to the sponsoring companies—PRODEL, RNT, ENDE, EPAL, K Business, ENG Consult, and DAR—for their generous support.
Lastly, my deepest appreciation goes to all the children and their guardians for accepting our invitation and making this event a success.
Thank you all!
