The African Development Bank believes in children. They are the future. Its investments in the water, health and education sectors improve the lives of children on the continent.

These include supporting regional member countries in building water infrastructure, health centres and schools, providing needed equipment, and training health workers and teachers. It also entails supporting communities to enhance food security through innovative agricultural activities that increase income. On this International Day of the African Child, June 16, we share some AfDB projects that have made a positive impact on their lives.

Education: The AfDB focuses on building critical skills needed, especially for teachers, to deliver quality primary education

AfDB approves US $52.5 million to support technical, vocational education and training and teacher education

Kaberuka lends his support to global education

Water: The African Development Bank is investing in sustainable infrastructure to ensure access to water and sanitation for all including the most underprivileged.

AWF sanitation project in South Africa to raise school girl attendance

The impact of a Bank-funded water infrastructure project on life in Boma, DRC

Food security: The Bank has categorised agriculture and food security as one of the three areas of special emphasis. It supports food security and nutrition programs by building resilience in agricultural value chains.

Rwanda: "One family, One cow" Project, 2014

Gender: The AfDB believes in improving the status of women and girls to enhance its agenda for inclusive growth.

AfDB working to improve the lives of girls and women

Health

The AfDB is committed to improving access to primary education and maternal health, and to reducing infant mortality on the continent. According to the 2014 MDG Report, "Assessing Progress towards the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) in Africa" - a joint publication produced annually by the African Development Bank (AfDB), the Economic Commission for Africa, the African Union Commission and the United Nations Development Programme - Africa's poverty rates have continued to decline, despite the adverse effects of the recent food, fuel, and global economic crisis.

In addition, the Bank has made strides in improving access to healthcare.

AfDB approves €115 million for inclusive and universal health coverage in Morocco