Community March Raises Awareness On Child Protection Week
Thabo Matlhabi
“Your child is my child.” Community takes a stand against child abuse. Residents, stakeholders, and community leaders came together in solidarity during a successful child protection week awareness walk, hosted by Mrs Mathibela Dorphy, a social auxiliary worker at the Light Centre for Children with Disabilities, held on Friday, 23 May 2026.
The awareness walk started at the centre and ended at Matshelapata Street, with support from the Tarlton Stakeholders Forum and other community stakeholders committed to protecting vulnerable children.
The campaign formed part of South Africa’s National Child Protection Week, observed annually from 29 May to 05 June, to promote awareness of children’s rights and safety.
The march aimed to educate, inform, and teach community members about children’s rights, abuse, neglect, statutory rape, dignity, equality, and also the importance of protecting children living with disabilities. Community members walked together to demonstrate unity and commitment to ensuring children grow up in safer and supportive environments.
Speaking during the walk, Mrs Mathibela Dorphy encouraged communities to take a collaborative responsibility for children’s well-being.
“Let’s love, support our children, and take care of them. Your child is my child, and any child is your child.”
The campaign also highlighted the growing concern of unreported child abuse cases, especially those occurring within families. Organisers called on community members to speak out and report abuse to the relevant authorities.
Mrs Napogadi Monari, as a social worker for the disability department, stressed the importance of protecting children living with disabilities.
Children with disabilities are among the most valuable to abuse and should never be left behind. We are encouraging families and stakeholders to work together and report cases of abuse, especially statutory rape and gender-based violence against children.”
Community members also received information about various organisations offering free child protection and support services.
The awareness campaign ended on a joyful note, with children receiving luncheon and drinks.