Child Protection Month uncovers the growing concerns over child neglect and abuse
Community organisations say poverty, fear, and lack of support continue to leave children vulnerable.
As South Africa observes Child Protection Month, concerns over child abuse and neglect continue to grow, with organisations calling for stronger community support and protection systems to be put in place for children in vulnerable situations.
The Department of Social Development launched the 2026 Child Protection Month campaign on May 3 under the theme: Working together in ending violence against children.
This calls for communities, the government, and stakeholders to unite and challenge violence against children.
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According to the National Child Protection Register, 8 984 cases of child abuse were recorded between the first and third quarters of the 2025/26 financial year. This also includes 3 258 sexual abuse cases.
Additionally, the Department of Justice’s statistical records noted an increase in statutory rape cases, from 127 in the 2024/25 financial year to 199 in 2025/26.
Kelly Ann van der Meer, founder of One Small Act of Kindness, said, “Honestly, child protection should matter every single month, not just in May. The reality is that so many children are silently going through things that would break your heart and don’t pause for the calendar,” she said.
Van Der Meer added that neglect is one of the things they encounter constantly, noting that in many cases, it is not about parents not caring but about the pressure of everyday life.
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She stated that many cases of child abuse go unreported.
“People have watched the system fail those brave enough to speak up, and that silence becomes a form of self-protection.
So much of what happens to children happens behind closed doors, and when communities [realise] that coming forward doesn’t always lead to justice and safety, it’s no wonder people hesitate.”
Social development said this year’s initiative will focus on strengthening response to statutory rape, teenage pregnancy and gaps in reporting and case handling, as the country still has high levels of gender-based violence, child sexual abuse, and increasing rates of teenage pregnancy.
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