Following several dialogues with members of the community, including children, the Commission noted deep worrying revelations on the impact of Ukuthwala/Funelani Nganeno especially on the rights of children.

As such, the Commission will revisit Steenbok to hold an engagement aimed at empowering community members and children on their rights especially on issues associated with Ukuthwala/Funelani Nganeno.

The Commission notes that it is imperative to empower children’s voices on matters concerning them in their communities, including Ukuthwala/Funelani Nganeno. As such, the Commission has appointed Child Rights Ambassadors across the country to help with advocating for the rights of children.

The appointment of ambassadors is in line with Article 12(1) of the Convention on the rights of the child which recognises the children’s right to participate in matters concerning them. Furthermore, the Convention on the rights of the child, also states that States Parties shall assure to the child who is capable of forming his or her views the rights to express those views freely in all matters affecting the child, the view of the child being given due weight in accordance with the age and maturity of the child.

Stakeholder engagement will be held as follows:

Date:  09 March 2024.

Venue: Steenbok Community Hall, Steenbok, Nkomazi, Mpumalanga

Time: 08:30 - 14:00

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.