Pre-school children march for their rights
The awareness walk is held every year by the Kids First Forum. Kgomotso Molokomme of the forum says children should be protected every day of the year.
More than 10 pre-schools in Mamelodi East took to the streets to raise awareness about children’s rights on Friday.
This annual event was organised for early childhood development centres by the Kids First Forum.
Kgomotso Molokomme from the forum said, “This year, we want the government to take the issue of children’s rights very seriously and not to celebrate [it] once a week or a month.
“We want our children to be protected throughout the year, every day, 365 days a year.”
She said the walk was all about educating and spreading the message of children’s rights.
The children spread the message with placards bearing “Stop child abuse” messages.
The walk started at Fourways next to the Muslim mosque in Mamelodi East and proceeded to Rethabile community hall.
Molokomme said the awareness campaign was also about teaching children about their rights, drugs and different kinds of abuse.
“The event wants to teach children about their rights at an early age and where to report crimes,” said Molokomme.
“Most of the children who took part in the march are still at the foundation phase.”
Mamelodi police also spoke to the children about safety, drugs and crime.
The pre-school children were also told not to accept gifts from strangers and to always listen to their parents.
Molokomme said many children get lost in shopping malls.
He warned against parents leaving their children under the supervision of another child or unsupervised.
The children were also sensitised about the number of missing children in the community, crime, bullying and the dangers of drugs.
Other organisations that attended the awareness walk were Thandanani Drop Inn and Women’s Brigade, which told the children about their services and how their programmes keep children busy, safe and off the streets.
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