South Africa: Protecting our children - webinar calls for stronger community action

"Effective child protection requires not only strong laws, but informed, supported and empowered parents and communities."

South Africa is commemorating a National Child Protection week from 29 May to 05 June. Under the theme “Working together in ending violence against children”,  the campaign unites different actors in government, civil society, and private sectors.

On 15 May 2026, stakeholders from across the gender-based violence (GBV) advocacy movement convened for a multi-provincial webinar titled ‘Protecting Our Children and Empowering Parents and Caregivers,’ bringing together organisations from KwaZulu-Natal, Free State, Eastern Cape and Gauteng to strengthen child protection efforts.

The webinar opened with a focus on strengthening child protection knowledge, with Bethlehem Child and Family Welfare outlining key forms of abuse including physical, sexual, emotional abuse, neglect and exploitation. Participants were reminded that reporting abuse is a legal obligation. Discussions unpacked consent laws and safeguarding procedures, highlighting that children under 15 cannot legally consent to sexual activity, and underscoring the importance of coordinated responses between caregivers, social workers and the justice system.

Masimanyane Women’s Rights International highlighted the growing risks children face online, including cyberbullying, online predators and exposure to harmful content. The session emphasised communication, trust and education. INCEMA Non-Profit Organisation presented five guiding principles for parenting: self-love and respect, routine, discipline, supervision and boundaries, these were positioned as practical tools to prevent abuse and create safe environments for children

Usizo Community Development Projects addressed harmful sexual behaviours in children, noting the need for early intervention, professional support and open communication. The webinar highlighted the importance of collaborative action across communities, civil society and government to create safer environments for children.

REFERENCES

1. Masimanyane Women’s Rights International – http://www.masimanyane.org.za

2. Bethlehem Child and Family Welfare – https://bcfw.org.za

3. Usizo Community Development Projects – https://usizocommunityprojects.org

4. INCEMA Non-Profit Organisation – http://www.incema.org.za

(Written by Thenjiwe Ngcobo, Gender Links)