Osizweni mother sentenced to 8 years for child abuse, neglect
The mother would leave home for days and sometimes weeks without making arrangements for her child’s care.
A 36-year-old mother has been sentenced to eight years’ imprisonment after being found guilty of child abuse and neglect in the Madadeni Magistrate’s Court on Monday (March 16).
According to Natasha Ramkisson-Kara of the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) KwaZulu-Natal Division, the accused pleaded guilty in terms of Section 112 of the Criminal Procedure Act 51 of 1977 to charges relating to the abuse and neglect of her four-month-old infant.
Repeated neglect raises alarm
The offences took place in the Osizweni area between March and August 2025.
During this time, Ramkisson-Kara said the accused repeatedly left her home without informing anyone of her whereabouts. On these occasions, she left her infant in the care of her mother for extended periods.
“Upon her return, the accused’s mother would reprimand her, expressing concern that the infant needed to be breastfed,” said Ramkisson-Kara.
Despite these concerns, the accused continued to leave home for days and, at times, weeks without making arrangements for the child’s care.
Court stresses duty to protect children
On one occasion, after the accused failed to return home, her mother opened a case with the police. The accused was arrested when she eventually returned.
In aggravation of sentence, Prosecutor Simphiwe Scelo Hlela told the court that the accused had both a legal and moral duty to care for her child.
He added that the courts have an obligation to uphold and protect children’s rights, which are safeguarded by the Constitution and recognised as paramount.
The court sentenced the accused to eight years’ direct imprisonment, sending a clear message that child neglect and abuse will not be tolerated.
The NPA said it hoped the sentence demonstrated the seriousness with which courts view crimes against children. “Children are among the most vulnerable members of society and must be protected by everyone, particularly their parents and caregivers,” Ramkisson-Kara concluded.
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