The initiative saw children under six years, in the care of their guardians from their Early Childhood Development centres (ECD), march from Emabhodweni’s administration block to the local Huntersfield Stadium. They were from 14 ECD centres in Katlehong.
The Achievers Early Childhood Development Association (AECDA), which is the governing body, and whose aim is to improve how ECDs should be run, led the protest march.
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AECDA chairperson Kate Mohulatse said the purpose of the march was to raise awareness about child abuse, hence the idea to allow children as young as below age six to be part of the protest march.
Mohulatse said the idea was to sensitise the perpetrators of abuse to stop the act, a call that has over a period of a long time been falling on deaf ears.
“The abuse is still happening all over the country, and often ends with innocent children molested and murdered. We thought if we let children be at the centre of the protest march perhaps the perpetrators will hear their cry and stop the abuse,” said Mohulatse.
She said the community responded well to the call. “It was positive and encouraging,” she said.
At the stadium, the children were treated to different sporting activities and also addressed by different speakers on different subjects.
Speakers from Child Line talked about different forms of abuse. The organisation was represented by Thobile Nxumalo, a Katlehong office manager.
EMPD and SAPS Social Crime units warned children to refuse gifts and money from strangers. They also advised about safe playing areas.
Const Lerato Shekeshe represented EMPD with Capt Lesetja Mathobela representing the SAPS.
Kabelo Motupa of the Ekurhuleni Emergency Services gave tips on what to do when fires broke out, and how to prevent them from spreading.
Eskom’s Eric Zibi gave a talk on how to safely use electricity.
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Representatives from Ekupholeni Mental Health and Trauma Centre and Ekurhuleni Sport and Recreation attended the event.
The following ECD centres took part in the protest march: Vuyolethu and Futyela Pre-Schools, Botshelo, Early-To-Rise, Vumelani, Siqalo, Bright Future, Ntuthuko, Step-By-Step and Philasande Day Care, Grace, Dynamic Kids, Tsakane and Hope.
Photos to follow soon
