The Department of Women, Children and People with Disabilities strongly condemns the recent spate of gender based violence incidences on children, boys and girls, regardless of perpetrators been minors or older persons.
It is absolutely unacceptable that in our society children continue to live in fear from their peers, family, friends and the general. Rape is rape regardless of age, gender or race and it remains a crime that will not be tolerated in our society. What has become deeply worrying is when minors are themselves perpetrators as it reflects back on the environment in which our children are brought up.
An environment whether in the home or in the community that exposes youngsters to sexual acts and material such as pornography which further contaminates the innocent mind of a child. The department calls upon parents, guardians, relatives and society at large to take the responsibility of morals and discipline education back in their own hands. Self-respect and respect of others need to be taught and most importantly, role modelled.
We further condemn the sale of alcohol and drugs to minors as these have become fertile grounds towards perpetuation of violations of women, children and people with disabilities' rights. We therefore urge our communities to report the sale of alcohol to minors and thereby assist law enforcement agencies bring those responsible to book.
The department commend the law enforcement agencies such as the South African Police Service (SAPS), health and social development workers as well as civil society organisations for responding to such cases and providing support to victims, families of victims and perpetrators. We further call on institutions to further strengthen their prevention programs that seek to educate and equip children, parents, professionals and even perpetrators.
The Department take this opportunity to express its great sadness on the passing of nine year old Lihle Hlanjwa from Delft South, who was three months ago raped and set alight but succumbed to her injuries this week at the Red Cross War Memorial Children’s Hospital. May her innocent soul rest in peace it so deserves. Our sincere condolences to the family and loved ones.
As we continue to look out, protect and support our children, let us remember the words of Tata President Nelson Mandela that “There can be no keener revelation of a country’s soul than in the way it treats its children”.
For more information please contact:
Ms Kenosi Machepa: Head of Communication
Cell: 072 571 2221
Tel: 012 369 0196
Email: kenosi.machepa@dwcpd.gov.za
