Community shocked by child’s injuries as SA observes Child Protection Week
The aim of child protection is to ensure the safety, well-being, care and protection of children.
As South Africans commemorate Child Protection Week, many have been shocked by the photos of an Ivory Park toddler with gruesome injuries, after the mother allegedly burnt the child with a hot tablespoon.
The child has since been moved to a place of safety. “The mother was arrested for assault with the purpose of inflicting grievous bodily harm,” said W/O Sekgobela.
Child Protection Week
The Minister of Social Development launched the 2016 Child Protection Week (CPW) on Sunday, May 29.
This year’s campaign focused on child labour and exploitation, as well as unaccompanied minors from neighbouring countries. The closing ceremony of the CPW will be held on June 5.
National Child Protection Week is marked annually to raise awareness for the rights of children. It aims to mobilise all sectors of society to care for and protect children.
The aim of child protection is to ensure the safety, well-being, care and protection of children through an integrated, multi-disciplinary approach. South Africa has drafted legislation which is based on the United Convention of the Rights of the Child, the African Charter on the Rights and Welfare of the Child and the Constitution. The latter specifically states that every child has the right to be protected from maltreatment, neglect, abuse or degradation.
Government urged everyone to wear the Green Ribbon during Child Protection Week to show support for promotion of the rights, care and protection of the child. The Green Ribbon was adopted by the National Child Protection Committee in 2004:
- The green refers to life and growth.
- By wearing the Green Ribbon, it shows that you care for and support Child Protection Week
- The Green Ribbon lets victims and survivors know that we are united in their support.
- It emphasises the importance of partnerships to tackle child abuse, neglect and exploitation.
For help, contact Childline South Africa on 0800 055 555 or Child Welfare South Africa on 011 452-4110.
