The Centre for Early Childhood Development(CECD) has released their new book, which is in honour of former president Nelson Mandela’s legacy of putting children first.

The Claremont-based non-profit released their newly published book titled Madiba: Our Children’s Champion at the College of Cape Town, Crawford campus, last Monday August 1.

The book’s release also coincides with the CECD celebrating their 28th anniversary of standing up for children’s rights and supporting early childhood development (ECD) centres in need.

Madiba: Our Children’s Champion was compiled by the CECD team of Bridget Kahts, Claire Pearce and Professor Eric Atmore and comprises a selection of President Mandela’s speeches about children while honouring some of today’s children’s champions.

Operations manager at the CECD, Ms Kahts says their new book also showcases inspirational and heart-warming pieces written by individuals whose lives have had a positive impact on children.

“These champions include Springbok rugby captain Siya Kolisi, internationally-recognised author Sindiwe Magona, the Western Cape Commissioner for Children Christina Nomdo, and author storyteller Dr Gcina Mhlophe among others,” she says.

The Madiba speeches are brought to life through photographs captured around Cape Town by Newton James Stanford, as well as artworks created by children of varying ages.

Researcher at CECD, Claire Pearce says they give special thanks to Children of Hope Educare in Red Hill, Children’s House of Lavender Hill, Charlene’s Angels Educare and New World Foundation Educare in Lavender Hill, as well as Westlake Primary School for their contribution to the book. “The book also contains quotes from children on what a ‘children’s champion’ means to them,” says Ms Pearce.

There is a limited print run and if you would like to receive a free copy of Madiba: Our Children’s Champion, email Ms Pearce on cpearce@cecd.org.za or call the CECD on 021 683 2420.