South Africa’s Child Protection Month wraps up in Ezibeleni, Eastern Cape, with a focus on combating statutory rape
The Acting Minister of Social Development, Ms Sindisiwe Chikunga, will in the fight against the scourge of statutory rape in the country, lead Child Protection Campaign closing in Ezibeleni, Eastern Cape Province under the theme: “Working together in ending violence against children”.
In addition to multiple child abuse incidents such as cyberbullying, abduction, assault, child trafficking, South Africa has been experiencing high prevalence of statutory rape, and this remains a serious threat to the multidisciplinary efforts of ensuring that children are protected.
In terms of Section 15 and 16 of the Criminal Law (Sexual Offences and Related Matters) Amendment Act 32 of 2007, any sexual activity involving a child under 16 years is illegal, regardless of consent.
Child Protection Campaign is grounded in inter-sectoral collaboration approach and seeks to unite government departments, Civil Society Organisations, international development partners, and community structures. Families are also at the centre of child nurturing, development and protection as they are regarded as first line of defence and deepening of positive values in society.
The campaign focuses on strengthening collective response to the statutory rape given the state of rising teenage pregnancy and persistent gaps in mandatory reporting and case handling.
At the closing event, residents of Ezibeleni and remote areas will be granted an opportunity to make presentations on various issues such as gender-based violence, sexual exploitation, child negligence, child labour, substance abuse and teenage pregnancy which negatively impact their living conditions, wellbeing and affecting their communities, in particular, children.
Members of the media are invited to attend and cover Child Protection Campaign closing planned as follows:
Date: Sunday, 07 June 2026
Time: 10h00
Venue: Sinako Junior Primary School, Ezibeleni: Eastern Cape Province
Media RSVP
Ms Precious Mupenzi
Cell: 083 715 0034
E-mail: PreciousMu@dsd.gov.za
Enquiries
Ms Sandy Godlwana
Cell: 082 678 5634
E-mail: SandyG@dsd.gov.za
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