Last year, children around the world were once again forced to overcome numerous crises. However, there is also some good news. Here are five examples that inspire hope for a brighter future for children.
Côte d’Ivoire: Bicycles used in the fight against malaria
In Côte d’Ivoire, bicycles have helped more than 8,000 health workers to reduce the number of malaria cases. In 2024, cases dropped by up to 70 per cent in certain parts of the country. Côte d’Ivoire is among the top ten countries in the world with the highest malaria cases. Members of the health team equipped with medications now travel by bicycle, enabling them to reach even the most remote villages. This ensures the disease is diagnosed at an early stage, children can be treated and families educated about protective measures.
Rwanda: Drones provide childbirth support
Women giving birth at the Mahama refugee camp in eastern Rwanda no longer have to endure a two-hour drive over bumpy roads to receive medical attention. Instead of travelling to the district hospital, medicines are now being delivered to them by drones. Blood, medicines and other medical supplies can be transported to the camp by air. Women suffering blood loss after giving birth who need to be treated quickly are among those to benefit.
Sierra Leone: Early marriage punishable by law
In 2024, the government of Sierra Leone passed a law banning and criminalising early marriage. The West African country has one of the highest rates of early marriage and teenage pregnancy. Around a third of all girls are married before they turn 18, and a further third have a child before they turn 19. Many of these young wives drop out of school and remain dependent on their husbands for the rest of their lives. They often become isolated and are more likely to experience physical and sexual violence.
Bangladesh: Floating health clinic saves lives
In Bangladesh, around five million people live on areas of land that form in rivers and floodplains known as Char. During the monsoon season, these settlements are often cut off from the outside world and inhabitants have to travel long distances to get to the nearest hospital. That is why Save the Children now operates a floating health clinic. The clinic transports midwives to remote villages, helping to reduce mortality rates among pregnant women, young mothers and newborn babies. The boat is equipped with a bed, oxygen tanks and first aid equipment.
Democratic Republic of Congo: School replaces child labour
Last year, we launched a long-term remediation programme together with the Centre for Child Rights and Business and our partner dormakaba to reduce child labour in the mining industry in the Democratic Republic of Congo. The children receive scholarships, medical care and psychological support to improve their lives and those of their families over the long term.
Help us build a brighter future for children in 2025. Together, we can ensure that we can continue to share good news like this next year.