Child Protection Week was officially launched at the Children’s Memorial Institute in Johannesburg, with this year’s theme centered on “Working Together to End Violence Against Children.” The event highlighted the urgent need for collective action to safeguard children amid alarming statistics on violence, abuse, and road fatalities.
A Call for Systemic Change
The launch emphasized transforming the Children’s Memorial Institute into a center of excellence for supporting vulnerable, disabled, and neurodiverse children. Dr. D. Blackey, CEO of the institute, outlined plans for a creative workshop tailored to disabled communities and resources for parents of neurodiverse children.
Disturbing Statistics on Violence
Margaret Zulu of Save the Children South Africa revealed shocking data from the South African Police Service:
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877 children murdered in the third quarter of the 2024/2025 financial year.
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6,484 children assaulted between October 2022 and December 2024.
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273 children killed between October and December 2024 alone.
Zulu stressed that children face violence “in their homes, schools, and communities,” calling for stronger child safeguarding policies and community accountability.
Road Safety Crisis for Children
Peggy Mars, founder of Wheel Well, highlighted the dangers children face on roads:
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1,145 child road fatalities in 2024, with two-thirds being pedestrians.
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Risks of kidnapping and accidents due to poor visibility and unsafe transport.
Mars urged parents to use car seats, citing children’s vulnerability in crashes due to underdeveloped skulls. She appealed for donations of unused car seats to protect underprivileged families.
Key Takeaways
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Strengthening Systems: Zulu called for coordinated efforts across government, NGOs, and communities.
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Online Safety: Digital threats demand urgent attention.
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Road Safety: Mars emphasized car seat use and safer scholar transport.
As Child Protection Week unfolds, the message is clear: ending violence against children requires vigilance, policy enforcement, and societal commitment.
For those wishing to donate car seats, drop-off points are available at Super Quick dealerships nationwide.
