As South Africa marks the beginning of Child Protection Week on Thursday, a non-profit organisation dedicated to helping orphaned children has sounded the alarm on what it describes as a "hidden pandemic" of child sexual abuse.
This year’s theme, “Every Conversation Matters: Shifting Conversation to Action,” underscores the urgent need for meaningful engagement and intervention.
Natalie Naude of the Restory Foundation says the country is facing a crisis, with disturbing statistics showing a child is raped approximately every 30 minutes.
“Sadly, things have worsened in recent years, with no signs of improvement,” Naude said. “These figures demand immediate and serious action.”
Quoting Mahatma Gandhi, Naude added, “The true measure of any society can be found in how it treats its most vulnerable members. In this regard, we are failing our children dismally.”
She emphasized that while justice remains a critical goal, it cannot be the sole focus.
“Given the scale of abuse and systemic failures, we must go beyond the pursuit of justice. Many cases do not result in convictions, and we must provide healing and long-term support to child survivors,” she said.
The Restory Foundation is calling for a national shift—one that transforms dialogue into decisive action to protect and support children affected by sexual abuse.