As we approach Human Rights Day on 21 March, we are reminded of the urgent need to strengthen the protection and fulfilment of children’s rights in South Africa. The South African Human Rights Commission identifies children’s rights as one of its core priority areas, underscoring the ongoing challenges faced by millions of young people across the country.
Children—defined in our Constitution as individuals under the age of 18—remain among the most vulnerable groups in our society. Current national estimates indicate that one in five children is an orphan, and approximately 64.5% live in low income households affected by poverty. These conditions contribute to food insecurity, limited access to quality education, inadequate basic services, and increased exposure to abuse and violence.
Every child placed in our care has endured some combination of these hardships. As a Child and Youth Care Centre, we provide a safe, nurturing, and stabilising environment for children in need of care and protection. Our aim is to give each child the opportunity to heal, learn, and simply experience childhood—free from the responsibilities and dangers they once carried.
Our programme focuses on promoting, protecting, and educating children and their families about children’s rights. Beyond our developmental residential programme, we also participate in local and national advocacy efforts to strengthen legislation and policy that affect vulnerable children.
Despite progress since democracy, UNICEF South Africa’s 2024 findings highlight an urgent call for action across all sectors to ensure every child understands their rights and experiences them consistently. Much more needs to be done before this becomes a reality for the many children who rely on organisations like ours for safety, dignity, and opportunity.
We are grateful for the many donors who by partnering with us provide the support we need to ensure that the children in our care not only survive but thrive, and that their rights are upheld in meaningful, lasting ways.
References:
UNICEF & SAHRC Websites
