The poor are the most vulnerable trafficking
A lot of children fall victim to human trafficking when their parents hand them over to people with a promise of a better life on the other side of the border said SANTAC delegates at this year's International Day Against Human Trafficking commemoration.
MALALANE – The South African Network Against Trafficking and Abuse of Children (SANTAC) recently organised a meeting in town in commemoration of the World Day against Trafficking in Persons. The aim of their meeting was to warn people on the dangers vulnerable communities may encounter in the name of better opportunities.
“Some parents sent their children off with someone they believe will care for their children and offer them better opportunities, only to find out that they later misuse them,” said speaker Stella Zacarias, when talking about the various types of child trafficking across the African continent.
“We need to be aware of the modus operandi of traffickers, especially when it comes to children,” said Zacarias.
The organisation has, over the years, rescued children that have been taken under false pretences in Mozambique and brought to South Africa to potentially have their organs harvested or used under poor conditions.
“Anyone can be a victim of trafficking, especially if you are vulnerable. Our duty is to educate the community to care for their children and be vigilant,” she added.
Once it is discovered that the children have been illegally brought into the country, it is known they are later subject to abuse from local authorities.
“Some of them are incarcerated with adults ready to be deported, which traumatises them once again,” said Paula Mondlana, from Children on the Move.
The organisation focuses on children who leave their respective countries as a result of various factors. Some of these start the journey off with their parents, before eventually being separated from them.
“Children’s rights should be universal rights, regardless of the country they are in,” said Mondlana.
