In a concerning development, the North West Department of Social Development is providing care for 96 undocumented children arrested during an operation targeting illegal miners, known as zama zamas, in Stilfontein. Most of these children are believed to be from neighbouring SADC countries such as Mozambique, Zimbabwe, Namibia, and Lesotho.
Protecting Children’s Rights
Social development spokesperson Bathembu Futshane emphasised the department’s legal mandate to safeguard the rights of children. “Under the Constitution of South Africa, the Children’s Act, the Child Justice Act, and the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC), we are obligated to protect these children,” Futshane stated.
The department will ensure the children’s basic needs are met while awaiting legal processing under the Child Justice Act. Once the courts determine their status, the children will be formally charged and housed in facilities dedicated to their care and safety.
Addressing Language Barriers and Cultural Needs
Futshane also highlighted the challenges posed by language differences. “Cultural mediation services will assist with translation, as language barriers have been a significant issue,” he said. These efforts aim to ensure that the children can fully understand the legal processes they are involved in.
Diplomatic Engagement and Health Support
Engagements with the Zimbabwean embassy and the Mozambican High Commission are underway to secure the necessary travel documents for the children’s repatriation. Futshane noted that health services have been provided to ensure the children’s wellbeing, adding, “We are conducting comprehensive assessments to determine whether these children are in need of further care and protection.”
Operation Vala Umgodi’s Impact
This intervention follows the arrest of illegal miners during Operation Vala Umgodi, a police initiative aimed at cracking down on illegal mining activities. Among those detained was a 14-year-old boy, underscoring the involvement of minors in these dangerous operations.
The children’s plight sheds light on the broader issue of illegal mining and the vulnerabilities faced by undocumented children drawn into these activities. The department has pledged continued support until the repatriation process is completed.
Comments