LIMPOPO DSD CONDEMNS BRUTAL ASSAULT OF TODDLER DURING CHILD PROTECTION MONTH

By DSD News

• ⁠The Limpopo Department of Social Development has condemned the alleged sexual assault of a 22-month-old child in Maphophe Village, describing the incident as a horrific violation of children’s rights and dignity.
• The incident has intensified concerns over ongoing violence against children during Child Protection Month, following other recent cases involving the deaths and abuse of children in Limpopo.
• The Department has called on communities, leaders, and stakeholders to work together to protect children and assist law enforcement in bringing perpetrators to justice.

The Limpopo Department of Social Development has expressed deep outrage and sorrow following the alleged sexual assault of a 22-month-old toddler in Maphophe Village, under the Saselamani policing area. The incident has sent shockwaves across the province and renewed urgent calls for stronger community action to protect children from violence and abuse.

According to reports, the child’s mother became concerned after noticing that her daughter was unable to stand and had a swollen knee. The toddler was taken to a local hospital, where medical examinations confirmed that she had allegedly been sexually assaulted. A case has since been opened and is under investigation by the Giyani Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences Unit. At this stage, the suspect remains unknown.

The incident comes during Child Protection Month, which is observed nationally under the theme of strengthening collective action to protect children from abuse, neglect, exploitation, and violence. The Department noted with concern that, despite ongoing awareness campaigns and interventions, children continue to face serious threats within communities.

The Department further reflected on other recent incidents involving children in Limpopo, including the deaths of two young children aged two and five, as well as the rape of a 15-year-old girl. These incidents, it said, highlight the continued vulnerability of children and the urgent need for sustained community vigilance and intervention.

Limpopo MEC for Social Development, Ms Florence Radzilani, condemned the incident in the strongest possible terms and called on society to take a united stand against violence targeting children.

“Every community has a responsibility to foster a safe environment where children can grow, learn and thrive without fear of harm. We call on community members, leaders and all stakeholders to unite in protecting our children,” said MEC Radzilani.

She also appealed to anyone with information relating to the incident or the whereabouts of the suspect to assist law enforcement authorities in ensuring that justice is served.
“Our children are our future. We owe them safety, love and protection. The Department of Social Development remains committed to working tirelessly to prevent such tragedies and to support victims and their families,” she said.
The Department reiterated its commitment to strengthening child protection interventions and urged communities to remain vigilant and actively report all forms of abuse and violence against children.