The chamber sponsored gifts varying from tablets to R300 vouchers for winners of an art and essay competition that had the children exploring the subject of women and child abuse in South Africa.
Captain William Chauke from the Midrand Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offence Unit said that it was important to teach children about abuse and sexual violence in a manner that was appropriate for their age.
“Sometimes, even adults need to be taught about how to handle such cases,” said Chauke at the Midrand Police Station at the award ceremony for the children who had submitted their abuse-related artworks.
Ernest Mahlaule, chairman of the chamber, said they were honored to have been able to sponsor the children’s aspirations in this regard. Mahlaule said, “[We would like to] thank our partners Pinnacle Africa, Hlanganani ICT, Mustek Limited, the Axis group and Mace Promotions for their support.”
The day was not all praise and glory, though. The children also received a warning from the Department of Social Development’s Anna Motau, a representative from the probation unit. She said she dealt with children who were in contravention of the law.
“You are all very creative and energetic, use those qualities as you already have, in a good way,” Motau said.
“There are children who have now found themselves in trouble with the law.” She said their movements were restricted and they no longer enjoyed the same freedom as other children. She also warned against drug and alcohol abuse.
Constable Nanti Belebesi, social crime prevention officer Midrand Police Station, said the day had been an inspiring one, and that the quality of the art warranted being put up on a website. “We will also have an auction of the artworks in October,” she said.
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