In recent weeks numerous allegations including rape, sodomy and underage sex have been made against Don Mattera Child and Youth Care Centre.
Also read: Former resident speaks out against Don Mattera Centre
In light of the allegations, Gauteng MEC of Social Development Nandi Mayathula-Khoza met with members of the media to discuss the department’s response to the allegations.
The allegations reported on by the NEWS were made by a staff member, a former resident and the Democratic Alliance, respectively.
The meeting was held at the centre earlier today.
Also read: ‘Allegations against Don Mattera centre false and ill-motivated’ – Department of Social Development
Once the department was made aware of the allegations, Mayathula-Khoza first visited the centre on March 7.
Also read: Edenvale child and youth centre accused of mismanagement
“The matters were not as exaggerated as the DA would like the nation to believe.”
She said the DA was spreading “malicious rumours”.
Also read: Edenvale SAPS to investigate Don Mattera Child and Youth Care Centre
“I have been the MEC of Social Development since 2014 and this is the first time I am hearing about the allegations against the centre.”
After visiting the centre Mayathula-Khoza called for an inquiry into the centre’s management.
Mayathula-Khoza wanted to know why children were allowed to abscond from the centre and why there were staff vacancies at the centre.
“Last year six children escaped from the centre and were later found in Alexandra. One boy and five girls absconded during the Nehawu strike last year,” said Mayathula-Khoza.
“The boy returned and took us back to the girls.”
Mayathula-Khoza said the six children are all accounted for.
“Some of them have been relocated to other child and youth care centres while others were reunited with their families.”
She said when the children absconded the police were notified.
According to Mayathula-Khoza, the department is also aware of eight children who had consensual sex at the centre.
She said this also occurred during the strike.
“During the same period, a section of the boys’ dormitory was set alight. Because of the damage caused by the fire, 18 boys now sleep in the centre’s gymnasium.
“We have begun the process of obtaining funds to repair the damaged rooms,” said Mayathula-Khoza.
She said it would cost more than R2-milion to repair the building.
“The allegations of rape and sodomy will be investigated,” said Mayathula-Khoza.
Editing and packaging: Marietta Lombard and Charmaine Slater.
