As we prepare for the Easter Holiday break the Department of Social Development in the Northern Cape Province wishes to take this opportunity to remind communities and families of their responsibility towards the care and protection of their children.
For Christians the Easter weekend is a time for spiritual renewal. This holiday is also characterized by families spending time with loved ones and friends but for others it is time for enjoyment and partying which can lead to substance abuse, child neglect and exploitation. Despite government’s and civil societies best efforts to prevent unnecessary loss of life and other atrocities related to alcohol and drug abuse , countless South Africans still suffer the consequences of irresponsible behaviour during the this time of the year.
Children are prone to vulnerability and exposed to some form of abuse due to this behaviour. They are left abandoned and destitute because of parents who indulge in alcohol and abdicate their parental responsibilities. During this time there is a high rate of crime due to a variety of factors.
The Department urge communities and families to make sure that children are safe from any harm and ill treatment. Parents are urged to be vigilant and always make sure that they are aware of their minor children’s whereabouts and that they are safe.
Communities are encouraged to foster an approach of “Your child is my child” and “It takes a village to raise a child” A special appeal is made on behalf of the children of the province that parents should look after them during this holiday period , especially when visiting crowded public places like swimming pools in order to avoid children getting lost or drowning in water.
We also make an appeal for the safety of unborn children. We urge pregnant women to refrain from using any form of drugs including alcohol and tobacco. The use of alcohol, drugs and tobacco can lead to serious brain damage to unborn children.
Moreover, children are encouraged to never walk in dark and deserted places, avoid talking to strangers and hitch hiking and abstain from the usage of alcohol, drugs and other substances and sexual activities.
If you would like to report any incidents that involve children, you can call the following numbers for assistance:
Provincial office
Ms. Masego Thapelo-Phemelo
Tel: 053 874 9228
CHILDLINE
Ms. Naomi Dube
Tel: 0800 05555
Frances Baard
Ms. Elise Moorcroft
Tel: 053 836 6971
Siyanda
Ms. Chamaine Vos
Tel: 054 337 9407
Namaqua
Ms. Martie Lotz
Tel: 027 341 1144
John Taole District
Ms Sannah Lekalake
Tel: 053 712 1549
Pixley Ka Seme
Mr. Eric Hawker
Tel: 053 632 7600
We urge communities to remember that life continues after the Easter Holiday and not to make bad choices during this period which will have permanent consequences they will regret for the rest of their lives.
Media enquiries:
Conrad Fortune
Manager : Communications
Cell: 079 783 0679
Email: cfortune@ncpg.gov.za
