Participants at a conference being held next wednesday 23 January 2002 at the Princess Diana of Wales Memorial Fund Conference Hall, County Hall, are expected to call on the government and its agencies to work closer with community groups in the country to ensure the welfare of newly arrived migrant African children in the UK.

The conference, organised by Africans Unite Against Child Abuse (AFRUCA) aims to examine the challenges and vulnerability facing young Africans on their arrival in the country. In particular, it will explore the roles of schools, social services, community groups and others in helping these children to settle in and deal with the new changes confronting them.

The event will focus on young African victims of attacks and abuse including:Victoria Climbie, who was murdered by her Aunt on 25 February 2000 and 17 year old Olusola Agoro who was stabbed to death by a gang of boys in Peckham in November 2000.
Jude Akapa, a 15 year old boy died from a fractured skull from blows inflicted on him by bullies at school. He was buried on 27 November last year on the day that would have marked his 16th birthday anniversary. A former school mate Tristan Gordon was found guilty of his murder and given a 12 month sentence on 21 December last year. Participants at the conference will also remember 10 year old Damilola Taylor, who bleed to death from a stab wound on 27 February. Ironically, the conference is being held on the day his killers are being charged to court for his murder.

Keynote speakers at the event include Mr Francis Climbie, the father of 8 year old Victoria Climbie and Mrs Antonette Akapa's Jude Akapa's mum.The conference will also examine the relationship between diversity and bulling in schools.

It is expected that the event will provide clear-cut ideas and further insight into the needs of young Africans settling in the country and how those needs can be met.
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Note to Editors

AFRUCA - Africans Unite Against Child Abuse is a organisation concerned about cruelty against the African child. Our aim is to promote the welfare of African children worldwide.Contact for further details:

 

Modupe Debbie Ariyo - Director
Tel: +44(0)20 7704 2261
Fax: +44(0)20 7704 2266
Post: AFRUCA, Unit 4S Leroy House, 436 Essex Road, London N1 3QP United Kingdom.

E-mail: info@AFRUCA.org
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