The Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development, Mmamoloko Kubayi, commemorated Child Protection Month in Gqeberha by engaging with the Kuyga community in Greenbushes, reinforcing the importance of safeguarding children’s rights.
A growing crisis for women and children in vulnerable communities has been highlighted, with single mothers struggling to raise their children without financial support and limited knowledge of legal protections. Advocates are urging the government to step in, emphasizing the need for safety, job opportunities for youth, and specialized care for victims of crime.
Single Mothers and Children Left Without Support
Many single mothers face immense challenges, raising children without maintenance payments while lacking awareness of how the justice system can assist them. A concerned advocate stressed the importance of protecting children who have been victimized, warning against secondary victimization by exposing their identities.
“When a child has been victimized, we must not continue the harm by exposing them,” the speaker said. “Parents must protect their children’s identities—safety is a huge issue for residents.”
Unemployment Crisis Among Youth
The situation is even more dire for young adults who have completed their education but remain jobless.
“Children past Grade 12 are at home with nothing to do—they are jobless,” the speaker noted, calling for government intervention to provide opportunities for unemployed youth.
Specialized Care for Child Victims
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) is referring crime victims, particularly children, to Thuthuzela Care Centers—specialized facilities designed to provide trauma support.
Taking statements from child victims is often difficult, but these centers offer counseling and guidance before medical examinations.
“When they arrive, counselors calm them down and explain the process,” the speaker said. “A child who has just been violated should not face further trauma during examinations.”
Plea for More Support Centers
Despite the critical role of Thuthuzela Care Centers, there is a pressing need for more facilities to assist victims. Advocates are urging expanded resources to ensure no child or woman is left without support.
As the crisis deepens, community leaders and activists are calling for immediate government action to protect vulnerable women and children, provide jobs for idle youth, and strengthen victim support systems.