South Africa: Burnt but Not Broken

A Child’s Pain, A Community’s Response 

In Nkandla, a known gender-based violence (GBV) hotspot in South Africa, an 11-year-old girl’s life changed in an instant. Preparing for school one morning, she was burned with boiling water by her cousin. The child, a bright and outspoken Grade 5 learner, suffered severe burns and endured six days without proper medical care. 

Her story is not just about physical pain it is about neglect and systemic failure. Living with her grandmother while her mother navigated an abusive relationship, the child faced emotional and physical abuse in silence. For a top learner with dreams, this was a devastating blow. 

The Intervention: Turning Trauma into Healing 

When the organization learned of the incident, they acted swiftly: 

• Legal Action: Assisted the family in opening a case with the South African Police Service (SAPS).
• Social Support: Referred to the case to a social worker for ongoing psychosocial care.
• Medical Care: Ensured the child receives proper treatment for her burns. 

This intervention was not just about addressing the immediate crisis it was about restoring dignity, confidence, and hope. 

The Change: From Pain to Power 

Today, the child is attending therapy and receiving continuous medical care. Her wounds are healing, and so is her spirit. She is regaining confidence and returning to school, determined to reclaim her future. 

The caregiver, too, benefits from psychosocial support, learning how to provide a safe and nurturing environment. This holistic approach ensures that healing extends beyond the victim to the family unit. 

Evidence of Transformation 

• The child is fully recovering physically and emotionally.
• She continues her education and remains a top learner.
• The family is engaged in ongoing support services. 

These steps reflect a clear shift from neglect and abuse to care and empowerment. 

Voices of Strength 

“14-year-old girl with burn scars but will never be BROKEN from negligence of my parents.” 
— Shasha Girl 

“My learning, my strength, and my determination.” 
— Nthombi 

“The child was burned with boiling water.” 
— Nthombi 

These words echo resilience a refusal to be defined by pain. 

Why This Story Matters 

This case highlights the urgent need for community-based interventions in GBV hotspots. It underscores the importance of psychosocial support, legal advocacy, and medical care for survivors especially children. Beyond healing, it calls for systemic change to protect vulnerable lives and break cycles of abuse. 

Sustainability and Next Steps 

The organization remains committed to: 

• Continued Psychosocial Support: Ensuring emotional recovery for the child and caregiver.
• Safety Measures: Referral to a place of safety or foster care if needed.
• Family Support: Ongoing counseling to address neglect and prevent future harm. 

This is more than a story of survival it is a testament to the power of intervention, community care, and resilience. 

By Kedisaletsi Kgabo, Nkandla