​In a display of unity and commitment to safeguarding children, the Gauteng Department of Social Development, through its Don Mattera Child and Youth Care Centre (CYCC), led a vibrant community march to mark Child Protection Week on Tuesday, 13 May 2025.

Partnering with SAPS, EMPD, Edenvale Clinic, Child Welfare Edenvale, Ithembelihle ELSEN School, YANA, and Norman House School, the event united caregivers, law enforcement, educators, and children under the theme: “Working Together in Ending Violence Against Children.”


The purpose of the march was twofold: to raise awareness about children’s rights and to promote the prevention of abuse, neglect, and exploitation. Participants aimed to educate communities, empower children, and shift harmful societal norms, especially encouraging boys to take an active stand against abuse and become allies in the fight for safer environments.


Children from Don Mattera CYCC led the march in their school uniforms to highlight a critical message: child abuse doesn’t stop at home, it follows children into classrooms, affecting their education and emotional well-being. The initiative was a call to action that no form of child abuse should be tolerated, and that collective effort is needed to build a safer South Africa for all children.


Mamokone Magobe, Child and Youth Care Supervisor at Don Mattera CYCC, stressed the importance of community accountability: “It is important for the community to become aware that our children are victims in their own communities and families. Raising this awareness helps shift mindsets and builds collective responsibility for child protection.”


Commemorated annually since 1997, National Child Protection Week draws attention to the rights enshrined in the Children’s Act of 2005 and Section 28 of the South African Constitution, which affirm every child’s right to dignity, protection, and safety. Despite these legal safeguards, many children remain at risk, making advocacy and public engagement like this crucial.


A young voice from the march, Omphile Tau* (not real name),expressed heart felt appreciation for the event: “I thank the government for such initiatives. They should happen throughout the year because they help heal the pain of young boys and girls who have been abused. It shows us that people care and are willing to support us. I hope more areas get to experience this kind of outreach.”


As a lasting message from the event, communities were encouraged to be vigilant, and report suspected child abuse. Early intervention can make all the difference in giving children a chance at a brighter, safer future.