Teachers, parents and young children from early childhood development centres across Mamelodi gathered on Friday to send a clear message that protecting children from violence requires the involvement of entire communities.
The event, organised by the Lethabong Forum as part of National Child Protection Week, brought together crèches and ECD centres from across the township amid growing concern over cases of child abuse, neglect and violence in South Africa.
Dressed in bright colours, hundreds of children participated in songs, poems and dance performances centred on this year’s theme, “Working Together to End Violence Against Children.” Organisers said the event was intended not only to celebrate children but also to raise awareness about the responsibility of families, schools and communities to safeguard their wellbeing.
Speaking on behalf of the forum, Faith Bonoko said early childhood development centres play a critical role in protecting vulnerable children. “Our job as teachers is not just to teach the alphabet,” said Bonoko. “Our biggest responsibility is to love these children, keep them safe and help protect them from harm because every child deserves to grow up in a safe environment.” Bonoko said the gathering was also a response to the continued reports of children being abused and killed across the country.
“Every day we hear about children becoming victims of violence. We are standing together today to remind the community that protecting children is everyone’s responsibility because they are the future of our nation,” she said. Lethabong Forum secretary Julend Chadi said the campaign’s message was particularly relevant given the number of children affected by abuse and violence.
“As the theme suggests, we must work together to keep children safe,” Chadi said. “The reality is that many children continue to suffer abuse and neglect. Communities, parents, teachers and government all have a role to play in preventing this.” She added that child protection should not be limited to one week of awareness activities.
“Protecting children is an everyday responsibility. We need communities to remain vigilant throughout the year and report cases of abuse whenever they occur,” she said. National Child Protection Week is observed annually to promote children’s rights and encourage collective action against abuse, neglect and exploitation. The campaign was introduced by the South African government in 1997 and is supported by organisations working to improve children’s safety and wellbeing.
The Constitution guarantees every child the right to be protected from maltreatment, neglect, abuse and degradation. As part of the awareness campaign, South Africans are encouraged to wear green ribbons as a symbol of their commitment to protecting children and creating safer communities.
Community members who suspect a child is being abused or neglected are urged to seek assistance through Childline South Africa, Child Welfare South Africa or the Gender-Based Violence Command Centre.
