President Pires launches 25th anniversary of SOS Children's Villages Cape Verde

Not only does 2009 mark the 60th anniversary of SOS Children's Villages but it also marks the 25th anniversary of SOS Children's Villages in Cape Verde. To kick-off their silver anniversary celebrations, SOS Children's Villages Cape Verde was paid a very special visit by President Mr Pedro Pires. On 28 March, he visited the two SOS Children's Villages in São Domingos and Assomada, as well as the Family Strengthening Programme in Praia.

Upon visiting families from the Family Strengthening Programme, Mr Pires congratulated the programme saying "This is a programme that should be an example for other districts", adding, "It is not only a support to the families but also an initiative that fills many gaps and helps the state to promote the quality of life in the country". Afterwards, the President visited the SOS Children's Village in São Domingos, where he was welcomed with great enthusiasm and offered a snack prepared by SOS mother Luizete with the help of her children. Luizete had the opportunity to talk with Mr Pires about the activities she undertakes as an SOS mother. When leaving, the President praised her for the food and for the affection with which she cares for her children. The President's visit ended at the SOS Children's Village Assomada, where children welcomed him with a demonstration of their Capoeira skills. For the event, the Village had also organised a photo exhibition showing the work of SOS mothers.

In his speech, President Pires paid tribute to SOS Children's Villages. He emphasised "the valuable work that SOS Children's Villages Cape Verde has done during these two and a half decades in the country, through its family care model, a home for vulnerable children, and also by educating, training, and transmitting human values such as sharing, friendship and solidarity". He added that "this availability, the willingness to understand, support and take into account the rights of others, in this case children, are very important values that must be shared". President Pires finally concluded by wishing "the staff, mothers, teachers, girls and boys a year of great success that will enrich the SOS Children's Villages human heritage."

SOS Children's Villages Cape Verde began work in 1984, with its SOS Children's Village and Nursery in Assomada. By the end of 2008, the two SOS Children's Villages in Sao Domingos and Assomada and the SOS Youth Home in Assomada were home to 176 children and young people.