Help arrives for Diepsloot fathers trying to obtain child documentation
From missing records to complicated administrative processes, many fathers have struggled to secure documentation for their children. A community outreach initiative aims to change that.
For many fathers in Diepsloot, obtaining birth certificates and identity documents for their children has been a long and frustrating process.
In an effort to assist those facing these challenges, Kgosiemang Attorneys, along with councillor Julius Maake, hosted an outreach programme in the community on June 23, offering legal guidance and support to fathers struggling to navigate the documentation process.
Maake said the programme was established after numerous fathers approached community leaders seeking assistance.
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“We have met fathers who have been trying for years to get birth certificates for their children without success.
Many of them have visited home affairs repeatedly, but have been unable to find solutions to their specific circumstances. Some cases involve missing documents, while others are complicated family situations that require legal guidance.”
Khosiemang Attorneys felt it was important to create a platform where these fathers can receive proper assistance, and understand what options are available to them.
Maake added that the lack of documentation often affects entire families.
“When a child does not have a birth certificate, it creates stress and uncertainty for parents. We want to ensure that families receive the support they need and that children are not left behind because of administrative challenges that have remained unresolved for years.”
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One father, Jeffrey Mashele, whose eight-year-old child still does not have a birth certificate, said he hopes the intervention will finally provide answers.
“My wife has been sick for a long time and cannot travel to home affairs. I have explained our situation and gone there several times, looking for assistance, but I have not received the help I need. It has been frustrating because all I want is for my child to have the documents every child should have.
“I am hoping that through this programme someone will finally listen to our situation and help us find a way forward.”
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