CELEBRATING 30 YEARS OF DEMOCRACY: REFLECTING ON CHILD PROTECTION IN SOUTH AFRICA

By Precious Mupenzi

• South Africa marks three decades of democracy with commendable advancements in child protection services, underpinned by robust policies prioritising children’s rights and well-being.
• Despite legislative strides, recent statistics reveal concerning levels of child abuse, neglect, and trafficking, highlighting the urgent need for collective action to address systemic vulnerabilities faced by children.
• As Child Protection Month approaches, stakeholders are called upon to reflect on achievements, acknowledge ongoing challenges, and unite in concerted efforts to safeguard every child’s rights and dignity through awareness, advocacy, and proactive intervention.

As South Africa commemorates three decades of democracy, it is opportune to applaud the significant progress made in child protection services. The country’s robust policies and legislation place child protection at the forefront, prioritising the rights and well-being of children.

In South Africa, children are endowed with certain fundamental rights enshrined in the Constitution and supported by various policies and legislation. These rights include the right to life, dignity, education, healthcare, and protection from abuse, neglect, and exploitation. The government has taken significant strides in implementing these rights through initiatives such as the Children’s Act and the National Plan of Action for Children.

However, despite these efforts, the latest statistics paint a grim picture. Children continue to be at the epicentre of abuse, neglect, and trafficking. According to recent data, cases of child abuse and exploitation remain alarmingly high, with many incidents going unreported or unresolved. This reality underscores the urgent need for collective action to address the systemic issues that perpetuate the vulnerability of children in our society.

As we approach Child Protection Week 2024, it is imperative that we reflect on the progress made thus far while acknowledging the challenges that lie ahead. While legislation and policies provide a framework for protection, their effectiveness depends on robust enforcement, adequate resources, and community involvement.

May marks Child Protection Month in South Africa, a time to put a spotlight on children’s issues, although the campaign is a year-round commitment. Child Protection Week is an annual event observed in South Africa, dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of safeguarding children’s rights and well-being. 

This year’s campaign serves as a poignant reminder that there is still much work to be done to ensure the safety and well-being of every child in South Africa. It is a call to action for all stakeholders – government, civil society, communities, and individuals to unite in their efforts to protect children from harm and create a nurturing environment where they can thrive.

During Child Protection Week, various activities and events will be organised across the country to raise awareness, educate the public, and mobilise support for child protection initiatives. From workshops and seminars to awareness campaigns and advocacy drives, there will be ample opportunities for everyone to get involved and make a difference.

This year, on 19 May, the nation will once again come together to reaffirm its commitment to protecting the most vulnerable members of society. Under the theme ” Protecting Children – 30 Years on,” the official launch of Child Protection Month will take place in the Northern Cape’s Francis Baard District.

However, amidst the commemoration, sobering statistics reveal a concerning reality of violence against children. The National Child Protection Register (NCPR) reported a worrisome increase of 23,732 cases of child abuse and neglect in the 2023/24 financial year, compared to the previous year’s 21,447 cases.

Sexual abuse remains distressingly prevalent, with South African Police Services (SAPS) reporting alarming figures. In the second quarter of 2023, SAPS recorded 7 cases of sexual assault in day-care/aftercare centres, 61 cases in primary and high schools, and 4 cases in special schools.

The spectrum of abuse extends beyond sexual violence to include deliberate neglect, physical abuse, emotional trauma, abandonment, and child murder. SAPS statistics from the second quarter paint a grim picture, with 293 children aged 0-17 years killed and 361 cases of attempted murder. These figures underscore a dire need for parental education and support in nurturing and protecting children.

Teenage pregnancy remains a persistent challenge, with the Department of Health’s 2023/2024 third-quarter statistics revealing 1,836 deliveries by girls aged 10-14 years. Moreover, as children navigate the digital landscape, online safety emerges as a critical concern. The benefits of technology are accompanied by risks such as online sexual exploitation, trafficking, and mental health issues. Safeguarding children both online and offline demands a comprehensive approach to ensure their well-being and protection.

As we reflect on three decades of democracy, let us renew our commitment to safeguarding the rights and dignity of every child in South Africa. It is incumbent upon all stakeholders to work together tirelessly to create a safer, more nurturing environment for our children.

In commemorating Child Protection Month, let us not only raise awareness but also take concrete actions to address the root causes of violence and abuse, and embody its spirit every day, in every interaction, and in every decision we make. Our children deserve nothing less than a future free from harm and filled with opportunity.

As we stand on the cusp of Child Protection Week 2024, let us reaffirm our commitment to upholding the rights of every child. Let us pledge to be vigilant, to speak out against injustice, and to work tirelessly to create a safer and more inclusive society for future generations. 

Together, let us protect, nurture, and empower the future of our nation.