The discovery was made by Midvaal Local Municipality’s (MLM)  rodding team while unblocking a sewer line in Sicelo recently.

MLM Mayor Bongani Baloyi says, “This is disheartening, it shouldn’t be that way for anyone, not even animals. There are many reasons for unwanted babies, but abandonment is no excuse.”

Baloyi said if an unwanted child is brought to the  attention of the municipality, counselling is offered.

“This is done to determine the mother’s state of mind and then we look at what alternatives are available.”

MLM says the abandonment of infants in South Africa is a common occurrence.

“We urge all our communities to stand together and report such incidents to  relevant authorities.”

Baloyi urges schools to refer pregnant learners to social workers so that they may receive counselling before they make decisions out of desperation.

MLM is appealing to anyone who can assist with the whereabouts of the mother of the child to contact Meyerton police at 016 360 4700.