Picture: The Northern Cape MEC for Social Development, Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities, Mase Manopole
By BAKANG MOKOTO
8 June 2026 – The Northern Cape MEC for Social Development, Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities, Mase Manopole led the provincial Child Protection Week programme in Victoria West, Ubuntu Local Municipality, under the theme: “Working Together in Ending Violence Against Children.” The event, supported by Ubuntu Local Municipality mayor, Sheryl Jantjies and local councillors, brought together government departments, SAPS, community leaders, faith-based organisations, civil society organisations, parents, caregivers and children to strengthen efforts to protect children from abuse, neglect, exploitation and violence.
Manopole said key stakeholders delivered messages of support, highlighting the importance of collaboration in safeguarding children. She further said SAPS underscored the role of law enforcement in combating child abuse, Legal Aid South Africa outlined available legal support services, while Child Ambassador Olothando Brys encouraged young people to make informed choices and remain focused on their education and future aspirations.
“Child protection is a shared responsibility. Children are the heart of our nation. Protecting them requires families, communities and the government to work together to create safe homes, schools and communities.
“We also raised concern over child abuse, sexual violence and teenage pregnancy in the province, noting that 396 child abuse cases were reported in the Northern Cape during the 2025/26 financial year, highlighting the need for stronger prevention and early intervention programmes,” added Manopole.
She said the Child Protection Week programme forms part of the department’s ongoing efforts to strengthen child protection services, family preservation programmes and community-based interventions addressing challenges such as Gender-Based Violence (GBV), substance abuse, family violence and teenage pregnancy.
She said the department also promoted awareness of reporting mechanisms and support services available to children and families, while encouraging communities to speak out against abuse and support child safety. Manopole called on parents, caregivers and community members to remain vigilant and to take children seriously when they report abuse or unsafe situations.
“Together, we can end violence against children and build a safer future for every child in the Northern Cape. In support of vulnerable families, we handed over 100 fleece blankets to parents and caregivers and distributed dignity packs to children during the programme.
“The initiative forms part of the department’s ongoing commitment to improving the wellbeing of children and families, while ensuring that vulnerable members of the community receive much-needed support and care during the winter season,” she said.
Manopole said the department extends its appreciation to all stakeholders, including SAPS, the Departments of Health, Education and Justice, municipalities, NGOs, faith-based organisations and community structures for their continued commitment to protecting children’s rights and wellbeing. She said as Child Protection Week continues, communities across the Northern Cape are encouraged to participate in awareness programmes, report abuse and help create safe, nurturing environments where every child can thrive.
The Guardian 