Gauteng Social Development marks International Children’s Day with call to protect children’s rights
The Gauteng Department of Social Development joined the global community in commemorating International Children’s Day urging all sectors of society to work together to protect children from abuse, neglect, violence and exploitation while promoting their rights and well-being
The Gauteng Department of Social Development has marked International Children’s Day by reaffirming its commitment to protecting children and ensuring they grow up in safe, caring and supportive environments.
Observed annually on June 1, International Children’s Day is dedicated to promoting the rights, protection and well-being of children around the world.
The day highlights the importance of creating opportunities for children to develop to their full potential while ensuring their safety and dignity.
This year’s commemoration takes place during Child Protection Week in South Africa, an annual campaign aimed at raising awareness about children’s rights and encouraging communities, families, government institutions and organisations to play an active role in protecting children from abuse, neglect, violence and exploitation.
Through partnerships with non-profit organisations and community-based organisations, the department continues to provide support services to vulnerable children affected by poverty, abuse, neglect, substance abuse and family breakdown.
These initiatives aim to improve children’s quality of life and strengthen family and community support systems.
The department also continues to implement parenting programmes and community awareness campaigns designed to promote positive parenting, prevent violence against children and create safer communities.
Gauteng MEC for Social Development, Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko, emphasised the importance of ensuring that children feel safe, loved and supported.
“International Children’s Day reminds us that every child has the right to protection, care, education and opportunities to develop to their fullest potential. As government, communities, families and civil society, we all have a responsibility to ensure that children are protected from harm and given every opportunity to thrive,” she said.
As part of Child Protection Week, residents are encouraged to report cases of child abuse, neglect and exploitation.
The department reiterated that protecting children is a shared responsibility and called on all members of society to work together to build a caring and nurturing environment for every child.
Child abuse, neglect and exploitation can be reported to the Gender-Based Violence Command Centre on 0800 428 428 or to Childline on 116.
