Tendai Munatsi, a social auxiliary worker at the Boksburg Kidz Clinic, has played a pivotal role in securing three life sentences this year for perpetrators of child rape.

The children were referred to the clinic in 2023, and her work highlights the crucial role of social workers in supporting survivors and ensuring justice.

“These cases were particularly harrowing because the perpetrators were trusted family members. These were people who should have protected the children, but instead used that trust to harm them. It shows that abuse often happens within a child’s own circle of trust.”

One of the recent cases involved a stepfather who repeatedly raped his 14-year-old stepdaughter.

Life imprisonment was secured with the assistance of Constable Lesedi Motshegoa of Germiston’s Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences (FCS) Unit.

“It is always fulfilling when I handle such cases. I chose to become a social worker because growing up, I was always exposed to the importance of giving, helping, and extending my resources.

“My past experiences and natural inclination to help inspired me to pursue a career in social work, particularly working with children and families. What keeps me committed is seeing the positive impact of my work.”

Also Read: FOLLOW UP: Community support helps Boksburg Kidz Clinic bounce back after break-in

Supporting survivors
Supporting child rape survivors is emotionally and psychologically challenging.

“One of the biggest challenges is helping children speak about the abuse, especially if the abuser is a family member. We create a safe environment, build trust, and use child-friendly techniques so they feel comfortable sharing their story,” she said.

The clinic provides trauma-focused therapy and court-preparation sessions.

“Through these interventions, children gain confidence and coping skills, allowing them to feel safe and empowered to testify in court,” Munatsi added.

Munatsi emphasised the importance of teamwork.

“Justice for children depends on coordinated efforts from all stakeholders, social workers, police, legal teams, and caregivers. Each must perform their role diligently for the child’s safety and to secure justice.”

When asked what message she would like to share with the community about preventing child abuse and supporting victims, Munatsi said that managing the emotional demands of the work is part of the responsibility.

“Sometimes the child’s pain feels like your own. You have to acknowledge it, separate it, and continue focusing on helping the child,” she explained.

Also Read: Thieves rob vulnerable children of Kidz Clinic services

She stressed the importance of supervision, debriefing with colleagues, and prioritising self-care as essential tools for social workers to remain effective in protecting and supporting vulnerable children.