UNITED FOR SA’s CHILDREN, SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT MINISTER LAUNCHES CHILD PROTECTION MONTH

By Ronewa Makhesha

• ⁠Led by the minister of social development, Sisisi Tolashe, Child Protection Month every May is part of a national campaign to end violence against children.
• ⁠Safeguarding South Africa’s children demands unwavering collaboration and focused action every day.
• Communities are encouraged to be more vigilant and proactive in acting against any form of abuse or neglect.

The air in Thaba Nchu resonates with a renewed dedication as South Africa officially launches Child Protection Month 2025 led by the minister of social development, Sisisi Tolashe, under the theme “Working together in ending violence against children.”

The launch, on 11 May 2025, serves as a powerful reminder that safeguarding South Africa’s children is a continuous journey, demanding unwavering collaboration and focused action every single day.

Child Protection Month brings to the forefront the various issues that affect children, including their right to education, health, shelter, and protection from harm.

By increasing public awareness, the campaign encourages communities to be more vigilant and proactive in ensuring child safety.

Child Protection Month calls on all members of society – parents, families, educators, community leaders, government officials, and children themselves – to play an active role in protecting children’s rights. It emphasises that child protection is not solely the responsibility of the state but a shared duty.

Learners from various schools across the Free State are eager to participate in the planned activities and have their voices heard, these young individuals represent the future the campaign seeks to protect.