The main aim of the African Children’s Charter – and the corresponding obligation of States - is to ensure that child- friendly laws and policies are adopted in each member State; and that practices develop to give effect to these laws and policies. Article 1 of the African Children’s Charter captures this obligation. Child-friendly laws and policies are rights-based and aim to serve the best interests of children. It is desirable, in addition to general or generic laws, policies and institutions dealing with children, and child-specific legislation, that policies and institutions also be put in place. Obviously, it is equally, if not more, important that these laws and policies are effectively implemented.The rest of the Agenda focuses on particular areas of law making and implementation. It is also crucial that the institutions are capacitated to operate and in fact function in a way that serves the best interests of children.

By 2040:

• A child-friendly national legislative, policy and institutional framework is in place and is enforced in all States.
• Existing child-friendly national legislative, policy and institutional frameworks are reinforced.
• Well-capacitated child-centered institutions function effectively and in a rights-based way, serving the best interests of children.