Child Protection Week: Joburg Welfare Demands Harsher Sentences for Child Abuse

South Africa marks Child Protection Week from 29 May to 5 June 2025. This is a powerful call to action is rising from civil society and law enforcement alike. With more than 26,000 cases of child abuse and neglect reported during the 2024–2025 financial year, the demand for tougher sentencing and stronger child protection measures has reached a critical point.

The theme for this year’s Child Protection Week is, “Working together in ending violence against children,”. This calls on every South African to play a role in safeguarding children from harm. It is a reminder that the safety, dignity, and rights of children are not negotiable. That action must follow awareness.

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Joburg Child Welfare Leads the Call for Justice

In a show of solidarity and urgency, Joburg Child Welfare (JCW), along with other non-profit organisations, marched to the Department of Justice on 1 June 2025. Their message was clear: South Africa must impose harsher penalties on perpetrators of child abuse. Particularly those involved in Schedule 6 crimes, which include the most serious offenses such as rape and sexual exploitation.

Abubakr Hattas, CEO of JCW, emphasized the importance of strengthening protective environments for children, stating:

“We demand a justice system that not only protects but actively deters violence against children.”

Hattas pointed out that while South Africa has comprehensive legislation and a national action plan to combat violence against children, enforcement remains a significant challenge. “Laws alone are not enough,” he warned. “Without implementation and community support, children remain vulnerable.”

Marching for Stricter Sentencing

The organisations’ march aimed to draw national attention to what they describe as a lenient and ineffective sentencing regime. Their stance is that justice must reflect the severity of harm inflicted on children. They also urged society to teach children about boundaries, respect, and their rights, building a stronger foundation for child safety.

“Acceptance of violence against children erodes protective norms and increases vulnerability,” said Hattas.

SAPS Cracks Down on Child Sex Offenders

In support of the week’s efforts, the South African Police Service (SAPS) highlighted recent cases where perpetrators of child sexual abuse received life sentences. These include:

• A 47-year-old pastor, sentenced to two life terms for raping a 12-year-old girl.
• A father of three, sentenced to life imprisonment by the Benoni Regional Court, found guilty of multiple counts of rape and sexual assault against his own children aged three to 13.
• A 50-year-old man arrested in Brackenfell, Cape Town, following a cybercrime investigation involving sexual exploitation and the production of child pornography. The SECI Unit had tracked him down from the Free State to the Western Cape.

Lieutenant Colonel Vincent Mukhathi reaffirmed SAPS’s commitment, stating:

“As South Africa observes Child Protection Week, SAPS remains dedicated to protecting children’s rights and ensuring justice for victims of sexual crimes.”

Why Harsher Sentences Matter

Advocates argue that stronger penalties serve as both justice and deterrence. When courts impose life sentences on abusers, they not only remove threats from society but also send a clear message that crimes against children will be met with the harshest consequences.

JCW and its allies believe that public education, legal reform, and social advocacy must work together. Schools, parents, and communities need to engage in open conversations about children’s rights and the signs of abuse. Government and law enforcement must ensure swift and severe punishment for those who violate those rights.

Moving Forward: A Collective Responsibility

Child Protection Week is not just about awareness — it is a rallying cry for real action. South Africans are urged to:

• Report suspected abuse to the authorities immediately.
• Educate children about their rights and personal safety.
• Support organisations like JCW working to protect vulnerable children.
• Demand that lawmakers prioritise child safety and sentencing reform.

As Abubakr Hattas aptly said, “More must be done to advocate for and protect the rights of every child and young person in the country.”

Child Protection Week 2025 serves as both a reminder and a challenge: that the future of the nation rests in the hands of its children — and it is our duty to ensure they grow up safe, protected, and empowered. With the combined efforts of civil society, justice institutions, and citizens, South Africa can take meaningful strides toward ending violence against children.