Moffat Mungazi
Dr Mazvita Machinga
“STRONG Children, Strong Nation: Start with Protection.”
Every year, the first week of June marks Child Protection Week, a significant period dedicated to raising awareness about children’s rights and safeguarding their well being.
This initiative was first launched in South Africa in 1997 by the Government under the leadership of the Department of Social Development.
It was created to emphasise society’s collective responsibility to protect children from violence, exploitation, neglect, and abuse.
Why was Child Protection Week initiated?
The week was established to bring national attention to the rights enshrined in the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child and local laws such as the Children’s Act.
The goal was to ensure that every child, regardless of background, would be nurtured, protected, and given the opportunity to grow in a safe environment.
Why is Child Protection Week important?
This week is crucial because it highlights the vulnerability of children in our societies.
Many children face risks such as abuse, neglect, child labour, trafficking, and violence, often hidden behind closed doors.
Child Protection Week serves as a reminder that children’s well being is, not solely a family or governmental concern, but a community and societal responsibility.
It challenges individuals and institutions to prioritise child safety in policies, homes, schools, and public spaces.
What does Child Protection Week address?
Child Protection Week calls attention to:
The prevention of child abuse and exploitation.
The promotion of children’s rights and dignity.
The strengthening of systems that support child wellbeing (like social services, health care, and education).
Raising awareness about the importance of early intervention in cases of neglect, violence, and trauma.
Empowering communities to create safe and nurturing environments for children to thrive.
As a psychotherapist and mental health consultant, I emphasise that protecting children is, not just about responding to harm, but about building resilient, supportive environments where children feel safe, loved, and valued.
Investing in child protection today means investing in a healthier, more just society tomorrow.
So, if your child or a child you know is having challenges mentally, emotionally, psychologically please seek help from professionals. Help is available. Let us remember: Every child matters.
Every child deserves to be protected. Make sure you spend time with your children and hear their experiences.
Let us all build a Safe World for Children: This is the Call of Child Protection Week.
Dr. Mazvita Machinga, Psychotherapist / Mental Health Consultant is a locally based Psychotherapist and mental health specialist. For help call 0771754519 or WhatsApp.
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