The General Comment No. 10 by the African Committee of Experts on the Rights and Welfare of the Child provides authoritative guidance to African governments on how to protect and support children without parental care.

It explains what Article 25 of the African Children’s Charter means in practice and sets out what countries must do to ensure every child grows up in a safe, nurturing family environment.

At its core, the General Comment is clear: children belong in families, not institutions. It prioritises preventing family separation, strengthening families, and ensuring that when alternative care is needed.