The DA demands that the vetting process of foster parents be followed and regular checks be conducted by the Department of Social Development.

This follows complaints of alleged abuse experienced by vulnerable children staying in foster homes in the Emfuleni municipal area.

Speaking to Sedibeng Ster DA MPL and Emfuleni North constituency head Kingsol Chabalala says he submitted questions to Social Development MEC Mbali Hlophe and Community Safety MEC Faith Mazibuko to determine the extent of the problem.

In her response to Chabalala’s questions, Hlophe confirmed that all foster care parents are subject to a vetting process against the National Child Protection policy of 2019 and are required to have a police clearance certificate.

Mazibuko says 16 cases of alleged abuse in foster homes have been reported to police across Gauteng. She adds these cases have not been finalised in court.

Chabalala says: “This revelation highlights that the lives and well-being of vulnerable children in foster homes are compromised and not adequately protected.

“These reported cases encompass a range of distressing charges, which include child abuse, child neglect, common assault, rape, and sexual abuse. All the cases opened have not been finalised in court.”

Chabalala says he will keep a watchful eye on foster care in Emfuleni and calls on anyone with information about abuse to come forward and report these cases to authorities.