By Thabo Motlhabi

” 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 child with disabilities,  on Friday,  23 May 2026.

The awareness walk started at the centre, and ended at the 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, violence, exploitation, statutory rape, dignity, equality, and also the importance of protecting children living with disabilities. Community members walked together to demonstrate unity, love, and commitment to ensuring children grow up in a safer, and supportive environments.

Speaking during the walk, Mrs. Mathibela Dorphy encouraged communities to take collective responsibilities for children’s well-being. “Let’s love, support our children, and take care of them. Your child is my child, any child is your child”.

The campaign also highlighted the growing concern of unreported child abuse cases, especially those occurring within families.  Organizers called on community members to speak out and report abuse to relevant authorities. Mrs. Napogadi Monari, a Social Workers from Mogale City Local Municipality, stressed the importance of protecting children with disabilities. “Children with disabilities are among the vulnerable to abuse, and should never be left behind. We are encouraging families, and stakeholders to work together to:

• report  cases of abuse
• especially statutory rape
• gender-based violence against children”.

Community members also received information about various organizations offering free child protection and support services.

The walk ended on the joyful note, with children receiving luncheon and drinks after the event.