In commemoration of the Child Protection Week and in promotion of the South African Human Rights Commission’s (the Commission) Social Harmony National Effort (SHiNE), Commissioner Makwetla visited Child and Youth Care Centres (CYCCS), schools in the Western Cape province and hosted a dialogue to promote and monitor the rights of children.  SHiNE is the programme of the Commission aimed at promoting social cohesion, harmony, tolerance, and respect for human rights across South Africa.

On the 29th and 30^th of May, Commissioner Makwetla visited Lawrence House CYCC and St. Agnes Covenant Primary School in Woodstock, and Bonnytoun CYCC in Bloemkombos where she listened to the children’s lived reality to understand their needs. Some of the concerns raised by the children were gangsterism, lack of security, lack of family support, child abuse in the homes, teenage pregnancy, poor sanitation, child prostitution, poor drainage system which leads to their homes flooding, gender based violence, racism, load-shedding and alcohol and drug abuse. It is important to also indicate that the children made recommendations to address these issues. One of them is the establishment of community forums where children can participate and engage with community members and leaders.

In line with the SHiNE theme for children ‘Children Need Role Models’, Commissioner Makwetla hosted a dialogue in the SAHRC Western Cape Office. The Commissioner sought to promote the awareness of positive role models for children and to advocate for care, protection, and mentorship for children in their respective communities. At the dialogue there were children from Zola Business School, Mfuleni, and Uxolo High School, teachers, and members of the South African Police Service. The children identified the role models within their communities, and that they could be good role models to other children.

The Commissioner committed that the Provincial Office will engage the relevant government departments on the various human rights issues raised that impact the children’s development.

ENDS

ISSUED BY THE SOUTH AFRICAN HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION

Wisani Baloyi – Acting Communications Coordinator Tel: 081 016 8308 This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or Alucia Sekgathume Tel: 082 689 2364 This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.