As the school holidays approach in South Africa, parents and caregivers are being urged to step up supervision of children to prevent gender-based violence, sexual assault, abduction, and human trafficking. Social Development Minister Dina Pule emphasized the importance of knowing children's whereabouts, especially when they are traveling or spending time outdoors. With many children traveling to various holiday destinations, Pule warned that their safety must not be compromised.
Minister Pule advised parents and guardians to exercise caution and alert neighbors or family members when children are left alone at home. She also warned against allowing children to roam the streets without a valid reason, as they may become vulnerable to various forms of abuse. The South African Police Service (SAPS) has also issued child-safety notices, calling on parents and caregivers to remain vigilant and ensure constant supervision of children.
The safety concerns extend beyond the physical environment, with the Department of Basic Education previously warning families about online risks, including cyberbullying, online predators, and sexual exploitation. Parents have been urged to monitor children's online activity and talk to them about who they interact with, while children should avoid sharing personal information, photographs, or their location with strangers.
Families traveling or visiting busy public spaces are encouraged to have basic safety measures in place. Children should know their parents' or guardians' contact numbers and which trusted adults they can approach if they feel unsafe. Parents should also act immediately if a child goes missing, with no 24-hour waiting period before a missing child can be reported to police.
Minister Pule emphasized that child protection is a collective responsibility involving families, communities, civil society organizations, and faith-based organizations. Her warning forms part of the government's 365 Days Comprehensive Child Protection Campaign, while the Department of Social Development is responsible for implementing Pillar 4 of the National Strategic Plan on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide.
The Gender-Based Violence Command Centre will remain operational 24 hours a day throughout the school holidays. Anyone who suspects that a child is being abused or experiencing violence can contact the GBV Command Centre on 0800 428 428, send a Please Call Me to *120*7867#, or SMS "Help" to 31531. Authorities are urging adults to remain alert to children's whereabouts, who they are with, and the environments they are entering.
With the school holidays underway, parents and caregivers are being urged to prioritize child safety and take proactive steps to prevent abuse. By working together, families and communities can help ensure that children have a safe and enjoyable holiday season. The government's efforts to raise awareness about child safety and prevent gender-based violence and human trafficking are ongoing, with a focus on protecting vulnerable children during the school holidays.
Key points
- Authorities urge parents to be vigilant about child safety during school holidays due to risks of gender-based violence, sexual assault, abduction, and human trafficking.
- Parents and caregivers should ensure constant supervision of children and take proactive steps to prevent abuse.
- The government's 365 Days Comprehensive Child Protection Campaign aims to raise awareness about child safety and prevent gender-based violence and human trafficking.
