Activ Kids Preschool organised the annual march, now in its second year, as part of the preschool’s curriculum.
“We had a whole week to prepare the children for the march. They learned about human rights and what the rights mean in their context,” said Loveness Nasser, one of the teachers at Activ Kids Preschool.
“The march is a culmination of everything they’ve learned.”
Motorists welcomed the sight of the little preschoolers marching on Le Roux Road, while others stopped and asked the adults who were present what the march was about. Some drivers hooted and cheered in admiration.
One motorist, Unathi Conjwa, stopped her car and took a video of the event. “They are so cute. I believe it is important for our children to grow up learning about such days as it helps them know our country’s history,” said Conjwa.
Taxi driver Bennett Ledwaba said the children were the correct messengers for this day. “It is important for adults to hear it from the children how the abuse of women and children affects them. These two groups have been abused for way too long,” said Ledwaba.
The march was accompanied by Metro police officers and members of Midrand Police Station. “It is important for children to know their rights at this age so when they are older, they know their responsibilities,” said Constable Matome Tlamela, head of communications of Midrand Police Station.
“If they know they have the right to education, life and so many others, it won’t be easy for perpetrators to abuse them as they will know how to approach their teachers and law enforcement.”
Sandra Mhuruyengwe, an educator of the school, said they partnered with Nagiah Shopping Centre to make the day possible. “We’d like to thank law enforcement officers who were present, parents, our staff, neighbours and Vorna Valley Spar who helped us today,” said Mhuruyengwe.
