BEYOND MAY: DSD AND PARTNERS RENEW YEAR-ROUND COMMITMENT TO CHILD PROTECTION

By Cuma Pantshwa

• We are not just closing a campaign — we are opening a renewed commitment,” said Deputy Minister of Social Development, Mr. Ganief Hendricks.
• The occasion marked the transition from a once-off campaign to a sustained, daily call to action through the 365 Days Programme of Action.
• The presence of government, civil society, and traditional leaders reaffirmed a coordinated approach to child protection, particularly in vulnerable communities.

Child Protection Month 2025 may have drawn to a close, but the mission to safeguard South Africa’s children is far from over. This year’s closing ceremony, held in Modjadjiskloof, Limpopo, was more than just a formality — it was a powerful recommitment to year-round action under the theme: “Working Together to End Violence Against Children – 365 Days a Year.”
Hosted by the Department of Social Development (DSD) in partnership with organisations such as Save the Children, the African Royal Women, and local traditional leadership, the event echoed a resounding message: child protection must be a daily national priority.
From the opening anthem to heartfelt performances by children, the programme created an atmosphere of shared purpose and urgency. It underscored the reality that ending violence against children requires more than awareness — it demands sustained, collective action.
“We are not just closing a campaign — we are opening a renewed commitment,” said Deputy Minister of Social Development, Mr. Ganief Hendricks.
“Ending violence against children requires us to act, to report, and to protect — not just for a week, but every day of every year.”
The event was attended by Limpopo MEC for Social Development Ms. Florence Radzilani, District Mayor Cllr. Pule Shayi, DSD Director-General Mr. Peter Netshipale, and Princess Tshepi Motloung of the African Royal Women. Their presence, alongside Kgosikgolo Modjadji, symbolised the strength of traditional and institutional leadership in tackling child vulnerability.
In his address, Deputy Minister Hendricks highlighted the pressing challenges in the district — from substance abuse and peer pressure to teenage pregnancy and domestic abuse — calling on parents to create safe spaces and open channels of communication with their children.
The ceremony also reflected on impactful engagements during the month, such as the community dialogue at Kheale High School, where parents and learners worked with DSD officials to co-create practical solutions. Civil society representatives praised DSD’s approach of meaningful, grassroots involvement.
The message from the podium was clear:
“Violence thrives in silence. Speak up. Report abuse. Protect children.”
Set in the culturally rich land of the Rain Queen, the ceremony served as a reminder that, like rainfall after drought, child protection efforts must be consistent, restorative, and rooted in community.
As the curtains close on National Child Protection Month, a new chapter of daily vigilance begins — for every child, in every community, every day.