Pretoria:As public schools in South Africa commenced their September spring holiday break, Social Development Minister Dina Pule has called on parents and guardians to be vigilant and take necessary precautions to ensure children's safety.
According to South African Government News Agency, Minister Pule emphasized the importance of safeguarding children, especially those traveling to various holiday destinations. She urged parents to remain proactive in preventing abuse, including gender-based violence and human trafficking, by ensuring children are not left alone without notifying neighbors or family members.
The Minister highlighted that children should not roam the streets without a valid reason, as this increases their vulnerability to abduction, sexual assault, and human trafficking. The Department of Social Development, which is responsible for implementing Pillar 4 of the National Strategic Plan on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide, will continue its efforts to support communities and provide care and healing to survivors and their families.
Pule urged all South Africans, along with civil society and faith-based organizations, to participate in preventing and responding to gender-based violence and femicide. She also stressed that parents and caregivers must always be aware of their children's whereabouts to prevent potential exploitation during the school holidays.
Reminding citizens of their collective duty to protect children, the Minister supported the 365 Days Comprehensive Child Protection Campaign and encouraged sharing the contact details of the Gender-Based Violence Command Centre with children and caregivers. The center will operate 24/7, including throughout the school holiday period. Minister Pule extended her wishes for a safe and enjoyable holiday to all children.
Anyone who suspects that a child is being abused or is experiencing any form of violence is urged to contact the Gender-Based Violence Command Centre on 0800 428 428. The Command Centre can also be accessed by sending a Please Call Me to *120*7867#; or SMS with the word 'Help' to 31531; or using Skype Helpme GBV.
