Kimberley - South Africa's Department of Social Development launched its annual Child Protection Week in Kimberley, Northern Cape, underlining continued efforts and challenges in safeguarding children's rights 30 years after initiating the campaign.

According to South African Government News Agency, while the nation has made significant progress, serious challenges persist in fully protecting children. The theme for this year's Child Protection Week, "Protecting South African Children, 30 years on," reflects ongoing efforts and the necessity for vigilance in upholding children's rights. During the launch event, Minister Lindiwe Zulu emphasized the critical transformation undergone by South Africa to prioritize the protection and promotion of human rights, including those of children.

The government has ramped up its commitment through substantial investments in essential services for children such as education, health, and access to clean water and electricity. The largest social assistance program in the country focuses on protecting children, aiming to foster an environment where they can be "loved, confident, happy, healthy, and empowered to reach their full potential."

At the campaign's kickoff, Minister Zulu highlighted the enduring issue of violence against children, referencing the unresolved case of 6-year-old Joslin Smith, who went missing in February and remains unfound. This case exemplifies the grave scenarios facing many South African children today.

Another pressing concern addressed by Minister Zulu was the alarming rate of teenage pregnancies, particularly in the Northern Cape's districts of John Taolo Gaetsewe and Frances Baard. The minister called for immediate action to prevent teenage pregnancies while encouraging young parents to continue their education.

The Department of Social Development reiterated the crucial role of family as the primary support system in the protection of children, emphasizing the implementation of child-and family-oriented programs over the years.