Khayelitsha educare centre takes a stand for children's safety
Sergeant Michael Mahomba addressing parents about abuse and children's rights.
Image: Phiri Cawe
children'srights Social worker Lorna Tshukuse participating in a play with the children.
Image: Phiri Cawe
children'srights Children from Ubukhobakhe Educare Centre participating in a group session on Tuesday morning where they were encouraged to report abuse.
Image: Phiri Cawe
Children’s safety took centre stage on Tuesday morning as the Khayelitsha Homestead, Thuthuzela Care Centre, and the South African Police Services joined forces at the Ubukhobakhe Educare Centre in Greenpoint, Khayelitsha.
The awareness day focused on teaching children essential safety measures, while parents were urged to encourage their children to walk in groups to stay safe.
Social worker Lorna Tshukuse emphasised that a child’s safety should be every parent’s top priority. She said teaching children about their right to life, as outlined in human rights documents and the Constitution of South Africa was vital.
"Protecting children from violence, exploitation, and abuse is not only a value but also an obligation," she said.
To illustrate these concepts, Tshukuse presented a play that taught children about their private body parts and the importance of consent. "We are obliged to teach them their rights as early as possible. Children need to know that responding to vehicles and strangers is a 'no no'. They should also learn that hugs should be given with consent," she said.
Vovo Nogqala from the Thuthuzela Centre delivered a strong message to parents, urging them to avoid forcing children to lie about incidents of rape and abuse.
She cautioned against making unfounded accusations.
"Parents often see things that even doctors do not. We discourage that. Ensure there is clear evidence before making such serious claims," she said.
Sergeant Michael Mahomba emphasised the need for children to recognise potential dangers. He urged parents to foster a sense of trust towards police officers rather than fear.
"Children should view police as protectors, not as figures to be feared. We have encountered many children who do not know their home addresses, which is concerning. They should at least know a nearby shop or another identifiable location," he said.
Sergeant Mahomba also called on men to take a stand against harming women and children, urging them to refrain from abusive behaviour and to avoid sending children to places like shebeens.
The principal of the educare centre, Tembisa Longo said: "We have learned a lot today. While we encourage many of the safety measures discussed, some were new to us. This collaboration with other stakeholders is invaluable."