CHAPTER NATIONAL SUMMIT 3: This was attended by children from all the 63 administrative districts in Zimbabwe. It was held at the Africa Unity Square and Parliament of Zimbabwe on the 22nd and 23rd of September 2010. CHALLENGES AND RECOMMENDATIONS BIRTH REGISTRATION Challenges ? There are too many children without birth certificates. Recommendations ? Right to nationality and identity for every child should be guaranteed in the constitution. ? Every child should be registered at birth. ? Fees charged to get a birth certificate should allow every family to afford registering their children. CHILD HEADED FAMILIES Challenges ? There are many child headed families emerging due to HIV and AIDS. ? OVCs are being neglected. ? There are no strong and functional social security measures in place for children living on their own. Recommendations ? Every effort should be made for children to know their parents and stay with them. ? The state should take the responsibility of looking after abandoned children. ? Child led families must have the right to special assistance from the state. ? Government must have social security measures in place for all children. DISCRIMINATION Challenges ? Children are not being given equal opportunities. ? There is gender inequality between boys and girls and they are being treated differently. ? Children's views are ignored as if what they say cannot assist in any way. They are denied participation. Recommendations ? All children must be given equal opportunities and fair treatment. ? There must be gender balance between boys and girls and admission at universities must be based on the same terms and conditions. ? Disabled children should be involved in sports and social activities and should never be discriminated for any reason. ? The right to be heard and to social participation should be respected and enforced. FOOD Challenges ? Many children suffer from malnutrition and starvation especially during times of drought. Recommendations ? Parents and adults must be sensitised on giving balanced diets and nutritious foods to their children. ? Government should help children with nutritious foods through supplementary food distribution schemes. HEALTH, WATER AND SANITATION Challenges ? There is unavailability of clean and safe water and proper sanitation in many communities especially in the rural areas. ? Children are not receiving medication when sick due to lack of financial resources and some religious sects which stop children from getting medical attention. ? Drugs and medical equipment especially in rural hospitals and clinics are in short supply. CHILD PARTICIPATION IN THE CONSTITUTION MAKING PROCESS Children's consultations CONSOLIDATED REPORT 58