The SOS Children's Villages Botswana National Care Reforms Conference held on September 18-19, 2024, brought together government leaders, civil servants, social welfare practitioners, and key stakeholders to address important issues in child protection and care reforms.

The keynote speech by Ms. Malebogo Modiakgotla, Acting Head of Child Protection Services, highlighted the need for improved legal and policy frameworks that support families and prevent unnecessary child separation.

The conference focused on various topics, including foster care, child protection policies, UN guidelines on alternative care, and strategies for family strengthening. Participants engaged in panel discussions, sharing experiences, identifying gaps in current frameworks, and outlining ways forward.

Day two emphasized interactive sessions, with testimonies from young adults who grew up in SOS Children's Villages. Attendees celebrated achievements while recognizing the challenges that remain in the legal and policy landscape. A key takeaway was the commitment to shift children from institutional care into community settings, enhancing their survival skills and integrating them into society.

The overarching goal of SOS Children's Villages Botswana is to ensure that children grow up in safe, loving environments, supported by a five-year strategy aimed at raising healthy and resilient children. Partnerships among stakeholders will be crucial to reintegrate children into their communities and strengthen family support systems.