More than 2 000 pupils from across KwaDukuza took to the streets last Thursday in support of the nationwide #JusticeForCwecwe campaign.
The pupils were demanding justice for a seven-year-old girl who was allegedly raped at Bergview College in Matatiele in October 2024.
Pupils from BW Vilakazi and Aldinville Primary, and Groutville High School lined the R102, holding placards and calling for urgent action to address domestic violence and child abuse. A simultaneous peaceful protest was held in Maphumulo.
The renewed public outcry follows a widely circulated podcast interview with the child’s mother earlier this year, in which she detailed her daughter’s traumatic experience and the lack of progress in the investigation.
Police Minister Senzo Mchunu confirmed that prosecutors had declined to pursue the case in 2024 due to insufficient evidence. However, following mounting public pressure, the case has been reopened. While persons of interest have been identified, no arrests have yet been made.
The case has reignited broader concerns over the rising levels of gender-based violence and child abuse in the region. According to Rise Up Movement founder Josha Daniel, five rape cases and eight domestic violence incidents have been reported in KwaDukuza between January and April this year.
“Many of these included applications for interim protection orders, highlighting the growing urgency needed to protect vulnerable individuals,” said Daniel.
The KwaDukuza Child and Family Welfare Society also raised concern, noting that cases of physical and sexual abuse are often linked to poverty, unemployment and substance abuse.
The society urged parents and guardians to remain vigilant and look out for signs of abuse in children, including sudden behavioural changes, fearfulness, a decline in school performance, inappropriate sexual behaviour or unexplained injuries.
The #JusticeForCwecwe movement continues to gain traction across the country, placing renewed pressure on law enforcement and the justice system to act decisively in cases involving vulnerable children.
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