Morwe Frans Motsume is a revered figure in South African law enforcement, with 33 years of dedicated service in the SAPS. He is celebrated for his exceptional aptitude as a detective, capturing 13 serial rapists and obtaining an extraordinary sentence for the 40yearold serial offender, Albert Nyembe. Despite challenges such as the disappearance of the original case file and Nyembe’s intimidation of victims, Motsume remained steadfast in his pursuit of justice, driven by a fervour to safeguard women and children.
Unveiling the Unsung Heroes: South Africa’s Police Force and Their Commitment to Child Protection
The South African Police Service’s Family Violence, Child Protection, and Sexual Offences Unit provides unwavering protection for the most vulnerable members of society. Their tireless work has led to the conviction of 2300 offenders and 19,360 arrests in the past year, with hundreds sentenced to life imprisonment or longterm prison sentences. The unit’s efforts offer hope for a future where children can flourish and dream without fear. The SAPS and the FCS unit are the unsung heroes of South Africa, fighting against heinous crimes and providing justice for victims.
A recent 90year sentence handed down to a child rapist in South Africa is a victory for child protection and the eradication of genderbased violence. The success of this case highlights the dedication and commitment of law enforcement in the region, and serves as a testament to the prioritization of women and children’s safety in the area.
The Red Cross War Memorial Children’s Hospital: A Ray of Hope Amidst Child Abuse and Neglect
Located in the bustling city of Cape Town, South Africa, the Red Cross War Memorial Children’s Hospital (RCWMCH) serves as a sanctuary for young abuse and neglect victims. On International Child Protection Day, it is essential to recognize the hospital’s commendable efforts in providing critical care and support to hundreds of needy children.
Despite being banned in South Africa for almost 30 years, corporal punishment remains a concerning issue. Recent data from Statistics South Africa (Stats SA) show that 3 out of 10 households in South Africa believe that physically punishing children is acceptable if they talk back or argue with their parents. This revelation came to light during the country’s observation of Child Protection Week.
International Children’s Day is celebrated on June 1st every year to raise awareness about the pressing issues that children face worldwide. This day serves as a reminder of the ongoing global commitment to ensuring the wellbeing of children. ### Eliminating Harmful Practices Affecting Children
South Africa is home to the largest population of child migrants on the continent, with an estimated 642,000 migrant children residing within its borders. The Department of Social Development, in partnership with USAID, seeks to address the challenges faced by this vulnerable population through the ChommY program.
The Gauteng Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Elias Mawela, commended detectives for their success in securing long prison sentences for serious crimes related to child protection. Between April 7 and May 18, 2023, detectives from various stations and provincial units obtained more than 10 life imprisonment terms, totaling over 1000 years in prison. The sentences were handed down to approximately 90 accused individuals involved in nearly 85 separate cases. The charges included murder, rape, sexual assault, kidnapping, and possession of child pornography.
The Department of Social Development recently hosted dialogues in Houtbay to discuss the importance of positive parenting and child protection, with a particular focus on boys. These discussions took place ahead of the Child Protection Week campaign launching on 28 May 2023. During the dialogues, boys emphasized the need for counseling, education, and support for parents to learn positive parenting techniques.
The Madadeni Regional Court in Newcastle, South Africa, has set a significant precedent in protecting women and children from sexual violence by handing down a groundbreaking decision. On May 4, 2023, the court sentenced Muziwami Zwane, a 45yearold man, to three life imprisonment terms for raping three women in separate incidents in November 2019. Additionally, he received nine years for kidnapping and six years for assault with the intent to cause grievous bodily harm. The court’s landmark ruling emphasizes that such heinous crimes will not be tolerated, and that the justice system stands firmly behind the victims.
In Cape Town, the discovery of an unidentified girl’s body on an open field at Fisantekraal has shaken the local community and raised concerns over the circumstances surrounding her death. The incident has sparked investigations by the South African Police Service (SAPS) in the hopes of determining the cause of death and bringing the perpetrator(s) to justice.