SOUTH AFRICA — As South Africa school holidays commence for the September spring break, Social Development Minister Dina Pule has issued a critical call for enhanced child protection measures, urging parents and guardians to remain vigilant against gender-based violence and human trafficking.
Minister Pule emphasized that with many children traveling to various holiday destinations, their safety must not be compromised. Parents and caregivers are advised to exercise proactive caution, including alerting neighbors or family members whenever children are left unattended at home. The Minister stressed that children should not roam the streets without a valid reason, as this significantly increases their vulnerability to abduction, sexual assault, and human trafficking.
Highlighting the Department of Social Development’s mandate in implementing Pillar 4 of the National Strategic Plan on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (NSP-GBVF), Minister Pule affirmed the department’s ongoing commitment to strengthening communities. This mandate includes providing robust institutional responses, care, support, and healing to survivors of gender-based violence and their families.
The successful execution of Pillar 4 requires a collective effort from all South Africans. Civil society organizations, faith-based groups, and the broader public are called upon to actively participate in preventing and responding to gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF). Caregivers must know their children’s whereabouts at all times, as perpetrators frequently target vulnerable youth during extended school breaks.
Reinforcing the objectives of the 365 Days Comprehensive Child Protection Campaign, Minister Pule reminded citizens of their continuous, shared responsibility to protect children. She strongly encouraged the public to share the contact details of the Gender-Based Violence Command Centre (GBVCC) with children and those responsible for their care.
Individuals who suspect that a child is being abused or is experiencing any form of violence are urged to contact the GBVCC immediately at 0800 428 428. Alternative, discreet access methods include sending a “Please Call Me” to *120*7867#, texting the word “Help” to 31531, or using Skype at Helpme GBV.
The Command Centre remains fully operational 24 hours a day, including throughout the duration of the school holidays. Minister Pule concluded her statement by wishing all children a safe and enjoyable school holiday.