The Portfolio Committee on Social Development is saddened by the report on statistics regarding violence against children. The report was presented by the South African Medical Research Council (SAMRC) today.
Briefing the Committee, SAMRC President, Dr Glenda Gray, said violence against children under the age of 18 was physical, psychological and sexual in nature. Dr Gray also said that an average of three children was murdered per day in South Africa, doubling the global rate.
“The violence against children is perpetuated by adults and peers and consequently resulting in suicide, substance abuse, alcohol abuse, delinquent behaviour, mental health and conduct problems,” Dr Gray said. Committee Chairperson, Ms Zoleka Capa, pointed out that violence against children was a huge problem in the country, and that it required the intervention of the society, especially families. She indicated she had confidence in the Department of Social Development.
“One wonders where the family units are when all these social ills occur to children, but the Department of Social Development has presented a comprehensive report to the Committee on how they will deal with all forms of violence against children and they also requested a substantial budget to that effect,” Ms Capa said.
On recommendations and way forward, Ms Capa encouraged scientists, responsible for conducting research, to also consider indigenous ways of raising a child in order to bring a holistic solution. “We take this report very seriously but we will interrogate it further with people like traditional healers and church leaders because we believe that it takes a village to raise and mould a responsible child,” she said.
For media enquiries or interviews with the Chairperson, please contact:
Justice Molafo
Tel: 021 403-8444
Cell: 078 865-0135
E-mail: jmolafo@parliament.gov.za
