Over 300 children from all provinces except Free State gathered in Nelson Mandela metropolitan municipality to raise their concerns during National Children’s Day.
These children were between the ages of thirteen and eighteen, whilst fifteen children were from various Early Childhood Development centres in and around the metropolitan area.
Minister for Women, Children and People with Disabilities, Ms Noluthando Mayende-Sibiya, Eastern Cape Premier Noxolo Kiviet, MEC for Social Development Nonkosi Mvana, MEC for Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture Xoliswa Tom, MEC for Safety and Liaison Gloria Barry and the Mayor of the metropolitan municipality Nondumiso Maphaza were amongst the guest who braced the occasion.
Under the theme: ‘Call to accelerate Child Survival’, these children were given a platform to voice out their concerning issues. Each province presented its own concerns, also speculating on its causes and what could be the solution. Violence against children, child trafficking, drug abuse, child pornography, discrimination against children with disability, traditional practices and corporal punishment were some of the issues that came out when the presentations were made.
Delivering her keynote address, Minister Mayende-Sibiya said: “I would like to express my appreciation for your objective and fruitful dialogue on children’s issues.”
She lashed out at people who discriminate against people with disabilities.
“This kind of attitude cannot be tolerated in our society. A child with disability has the right to survival, development and education,” Minister said.
Minister Mayende-Sibiya promised that all the views that were raised on the day would be incorporated into the programme of her ministry.
“We will do everything in our power to ensure a better life for all our children,” She concluded.
Issued by: Department of Social Development, Eastern Cape Provincial Government 12 November 2009
Source: Department of Social Development, Eastern Cape Provincial Government (http://www.socdev.ecprov.gov.za/)
