South Africa: Protection of Children in South Africa

A Growing Crisis: The Digital Threat to South Africa’s Children 

In South Africa, the digital age has brought unprecedented opportunities—but also grave dangers. Among the most alarming is the rampant circulation of Child Sexual Abuse Material (CSAM) on social media platforms, particularly X (formerly Twitter). For years, predators have exploited these spaces with little accountability from tech giants. The normalization of predatory behaviour toward minors online has become a chilling reality, leaving children vulnerable and communities outraged. 

The problem was not hidden. It was festering in plain sight—hashtags, coded language, and viral trends masking exploitation. One such term, “After 12 is Lunch,” revealed a disturbing mind set: predators openly signalling willingness to engage sexually with girls as soon as they turn twelve. This was not just a fringe phenomenon; it was systemic, normalized, and largely unchecked. 

Catalyst for Change: A Report That Sparked a Movement 

The turning point came when the Centre for Analytics and Behavioural Change (CABC) released a groundbreaking report titled The State of Child Predation on South African social media. Covering June 2024 to May 2025, the report exposed the blurred lines between grooming, exploitation, and online “trends.” It revealed how predators manipulate algorithms and exploit platform loopholes to target minors. 

This report did more than inform—it ignited action. Media houses amplified its findings, sparking national debate and putting tech companies under scrutiny. Headlines described the revelations as “chilling,” and conversations shifted from passive concern to urgent calls for accountability. 

Evidence of Impact: From Awareness to Action 

The ripple effect was immediate. Significant media coverage followed, and a landmark court order against Meta compelled the removal of platforms perpetuating CSAM. For the first time, there was legal recognition that tech companies bear responsibility for the content they host. 

As Lotus FM reported: 

“Concerns have been raised for the safety of young girls using social media platforms. This after a recently released report by The Centre for Analytics and Behavioural Change highlighted a term used by predators: ‘After 12 is Lunch.’” — Shanell Daniel, Lotus FM 

Independent Online echoed the urgency: 

“The new report by CABC, which has revealed deeply troubling narratives and trends regarding child sexual exploitation, teenage pregnancy, and the normalization of predatory behaviour toward minors on social media platforms, has raised concern and been labelled ‘chilling.’” 

And Peninah Kimiri captured the essence of the challenge: 

“The safety of children online cannot be left to algorithms.” 

These voices underscore a shift—from silence to collective outrage, from passive observation to active intervention. 

Sustainability and Next Steps 

The fight is far from over. CABC plans to map networks responsible for perpetuating CSAM and collaborate with stakeholders to dismantle them. The strategy includes preventive measures, advocacy for stronger legislation, and partnerships with tech companies to ensure child safety is not an afterthought but a priority. 

This is not just about removing harmful content; it’s about reshaping digital spaces into safe environments for children. It’s about demanding accountability from platforms that profit from engagement while ignoring exploitation. And it’s about empowering communities, policymakers, and parents to recognize and resist the normalization of abuse. 

Why This Matters 

Child protection is not optional—it is a fundamental human right. In a world where predators adapt faster than policies, vigilance must be relentless. South Africa’s experience is a stark reminder that technology, while transformative, can also be weaponized against the most vulnerable. The recent progress proves that change is possible when research, media, and legal systems converge with a shared purpose: safeguarding children. 

The journey ahead requires courage, collaboration, and commitment. Because every child deserves more than survival—they deserve safety, dignity, and a future free from exploitation. 

By: Kyle Janse