Gauteng MEC for Health and Social Development, Qedani Mahlangu, has called on women organisations, non-government organisations (NGO’s) and the general public to gather in numbers outside the Krugersdorp magistrates court on Monday where a suspect accused of raping and killing a six year old girl form Kagiso on west rand will be appearing in court.
MEC Mahlangu says this would demonstrate public’s outrage at the increasing incidents of child abuse and people with disabilities in the country. She has instructed social workers to oppose bail.
“We cannot allow a situation where children continue to suffer abuse. It is high time that society stands up to fight this scourge. The department of Health and Social development will ensure that child abuse and the protection of children and other vulnerable groups in society are prioritised,” said MEC Mahlangu.
Meanwhile a 19 year old mentally disabled girl from Soweto who was raped last week would be placed at a facility where she will receive life skills. The decision to place the girl follows a visit by Gauteng Premier, Nomvula Mokonyane and Health and Social Development MEC, Qedani Mahlangu, to the girl’s family in Soweto. The 19 year old, whom it is said has a mind of a four year old, was allegedly raped by a family friend where she had been visiting with her aunt. The girl has also been put on a prophylaxis programme to prevent any possible HIV or Sexually Transmitted Infections (STI’s).
The girl who leaves with her grandmother and aunt will be placed at a boarding school where she will undergo educational activities to stimulate her growth and development. Consideration will be given to the family to visit the child at the school in order to sustain the relationship between the child and the grandmother.
The Premier and the MEC also paid a visit to another family in Jabulani, Soweto where a four year old girl was allegedly raped by person known to the family and the child. The incident took place while the mother went drinking leaving the girl alone in a back yard room of her parents place. The child has been to the Teddy Bear Clinic for medical and physiological assessment and intervention. The child will also receive intermediary services when she testifies in court due to her age.
The Premier and the MEC appeal to parents not to neglect but to look after and protect their children. They also urge parents to contact the police immediately if they notice any unfamiliar signs and behavioural changes in their children.
Enquiries:
Mandla Sidu
Cell: 082 773 9013
Issued by: Department of Health and Social Development, Gauteng Provincial Government
12 November 2009
