Various government sectors led by the Department of Social Development commemorated National Child Protection Week under the theme ‘Let us Protect Children during COVID-19 and beyond.’
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For Diepkloof- based organisation, Rena Le Lona Creative Centre for Children said they commemorated the week to raise awareness about social ills that children still face in many parts of the country.
They said they remained concerned about the levels of abuse and exploitation of minors. They also added that many children were still not able to exercise their right to basic education because of financial difficulties.
Sibusiso Ndaba from Rena Le Lona said, “Our beneficiaries are vulnerable children and orphans, some in the care of relatives and care-givers. As an organisation that works with children, we felt obligated to use Child Protection Week to assist our beneficiaries in accessing Child Support Grant (CSG).”
Ndaba added that Child Protection Week shouldn’t be celebrated only once a year and as Rena Le Lona centre they advocate for the protection of children all-year-round.
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Ndaba also said it was up to all sectors of society to work together in putting a stop to the vicious cycle of abuse and put the safety of children first.
“It t is everyone’s duty in society to protect our children. We as Rena Le Lona Creative Centre for Children appeal to community members to work with us and law enforcement to eradicate the scourge of child abuse that usually happens in their homes,” he added.
Rena Le Lona also welcomed the decision of the Department of Social Development to improve the social grant process adding that the move is an indication of the strides that have been made in the fight for children.
The department tabled the Social Assistance Amendment Act on May 30 effectively improving the social assistance programme to benefit orphans and vulnerable children.
The Department of Social Development has a 24-hour call centre dedicated to providing support and counselling to victims of Gender-Based Violence.
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Government also urged the use of the toll-free number on 0800 428 428 (0800 GBV GBV) to speak to a social worker for assistance and counselling.
Callers can also request a social worker from the Command Centre to contact them by dialling *120*7867# (free) from any cell phone or call Childline South Africa on 0800 055 555.
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