The Gauteng MEC for Social Development, Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko, condemned GBV and the sexual abuse of children, describing it as a societal crisis that demands urgent and collective action.

This follows her participation in a picket outside the Roodepoort Magistrate’s Court in support of a 12-year-old victim from Dobsonville, who was allegedly assaulted by a 58-year-old man.

The accused was subsequently arrested on charges of child abuse and is expected to appear in court after his bail hearing was postponed to 22 April 2026.

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“We are seeing many cases of child sexual offences in our courts, where parents and guardians have been convicted of sexual offences against children, including children with Disabilities,” said MEC Nkomo-Ralehoko.

“At least one in five children is a victim of sexual abuse. These cases are widely reported in the media and paint a grim picture that requires special attention from government, communities and civil society organisations working together,” said Nkomo-Ralehoko.

Nkomo-Ralehoko added that the Gauteng Department of Social Development offers various intervention levels to assist in the fight against social crimes.

“These include prevention, early intervention, statutory services, reintegration and aftercare,” she said.

“Social crime prevention remains one of the priority programmes of the GDSD. These programmes and services are guided by the Child Justice Act 75 of 2008, the Children’s Act 38 of 2005 and the Sexual Offences Act 32 of 2007.

“These Acts provide guidance on the processes that must be followed to support children who are victims. The right to live free from violence and the right to dignity are fundamental.”

“For that to happen, our communities must be spaces where safety is not a privilege, but a guarantee,” said Nkomo-Ralehoko.

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Victims of GBV and witnesses can approach Gauteng Department of Social Development offices or the nearest police station.

For immediate assistance, they may contact:
• SAPS: 10111
• Thuthuzela Care Centres: 011 923 2180
• Childline: 08000 55555
• National GBV Command Centre: 0800 428 428
• Human Trafficking (TIP) Resource Line: 0800 222 777.