By Charmaine Ndlela

Social Development Minister Sisisi Tolashe has told parents not to shield those who exploit children by accepting money, cattle or goats as compensation.

Tolashe made the call as government launched Child Protection Month in KwaZulu-Natal. She told those at the event that communities, civil society and law enforcement agencies should work together to protect children from abuse, violence, statutory rape and exploitation.

The launch took place at the Prince Mangosuthu Sports Field in the eDumbe Local Municipality.

Delivering her keynote address, Tolashe said South Africa needed a whole-of-society response to ensure children are safe.

“Today we come here to fight a battle of different kind, the most vulnerable in our society, children. We are here today to fight child abuse, violence against children, statutory rape and child exploitation in our society,” she said.

Tolashe called on parents to prioritise children’s safety over compensation from perpetrators.

“[N]o matter how poor your family is, stop shielding the perpetrators by accepting money, cattle or goats as inhlawulo (compensation). Those who sexually exploit vulnerable girls and boys from vulnerable families must be identified, reported, prosecuted and face the consequences of their heinous actions.

“Dealing decisively with the scourge of gender-based violence and femicide, which President Cyril Ramaphosa has rightfully declared a national disaster, starts with reporting and robust prosecution of statutory rapists and ensuring that every child in South Africa knows his or her rights,” she said.

Various stakeholders, including children, civil society groups, NGOs and the United Nations Children’s Fund, were at the launch.

UNICEF delivered a message of support, saying that government alone cannot win the battle against violence affecting children. It said child protection starts at home with parents, continues at schools with teachers, and requires the involvement of society as a whole.

KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Social Development Mbali Shinga called on South Africans to play an active role in protecting children.

“Child Protection is a call to action that reminds all of us to create a safe environment for children. In KZN, we are working every day to protect children, together with all stakeholders. I call on all South Africans to work together with law enforcement to create a safer environment for children,” she said.

The Department of Social Development said the launch marked a heightened period of action by various stakeholders, but warned that child protection should not be treated as a once-off event.

It said the campaign would include engagements with children, traditional leaders, religious leaders, parents, caregivers and other stakeholders, all aimed at ensuring children are protected.

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