Child Protection Week: Childline KZN urges communities to speak out against abuse
Neglect remains the most common form of child abuse, often linked to poverty and substance abuse.
Childline KZN says communities must speak out against child abuse and neglect as Child Protection Week is observed.
The organisation says neglect remains the most common form of abuse, often linked to poverty and substance abuse.
Director Adeshini Naicker says warning signs include sudden behavioural changes, withdrawal, unexplained injuries and poor hygiene.
People are encouraged to report suspected abuse to the South African Police Service (SAPS) or the Department of Social Development.
Naicker says staying silent can leave a child in danger.
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Childline KZN says everyone needs to play a role in keeping children safe
She adds that protecting children is everyone's responsibility.
"In KZN particularly, the biggest dangers include sexual abuse and exploitation. This often happens in homes or by people known to the child, which makes it harder to detect and report.
"Another major concern is violence in communities and schools. This includes physical abuse, bullying and exposure to gang activities in some areas. Many children are affected by neglect, and often this links to poverty, substance abuse in households and a lack of supervision or care."
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Staggering number of children among rape victims
Meanwhile, the Portfolio Committee on Social Development is calling on every South African to play their part in protecting children from sexual abuse and violence.
Chairperson Bridget Masango says more than 43 000 rape cases were recorded across the country in the 2022/2023 financial year.
"About 10 590 of those cases involved children under the age of 18. In 2020 alone, nearly 700 babies were born to girls aged just nine and 10 years old."
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