Dear Editor
Year after year the ANC government has proven that commemoration occasions are not coupled with action.
This week, government commemorated Child Protection Week. Despite perpetual promises from government to end crimes against children, they face increasing danger in South Africa.
The ANC government is failing the children of South Africa.
In 2021/22, 1 009 children under 5 years died of acute malnutrition. KwaZulu-Natal has the highest number of deaths to Severe Acute Malnutrition with 187 deaths. In the Eastern Cape, 127 children died. The province with the least number of child deaths for severe acute malnutrition is the Western Cape at 15.
From January to March 2022, 306 children have been murdered and 1 937 were assaulted causing grievous bodily harm.
According to the Department of Basic Education, 46% of sexual abuse complaints are children. In 2019/20, 17 118 cases of rape were reported. This shocking number excludes the substantial amount of cases that go unreported.
28.1 children per day subject to violence.
Children need to be protected at all costs. As much as Child Protection Week can be commended, we must do all in our power to protect children throughout the year.
It is clear that the ANC is failing in protecting the children of South Africa as we continue to see the numbers of these statistics grow year on year. The ANC government cannot be allowed to continue making empty promises. They must action their various plans and ensure the safety of all children.
Regards
Bridget Masango MP
DA Shadow Minister of Social Development
