The Department of Justice and Constitutional Development (DoJ&CD) has continued its Child Protection Week 2026 activities by raising awareness about children’s rights and providing support to young people at the Soshanguve Secure Care Centre, known as the Father Smangaliso Mkhatswa Secure Care Centre.
During the outreach programme, Ms Tshidi Tabane-Shai explained the importance of the Child Justice Act (CJA), which seeks to ensure that child justice matters are handled in a rights-based manner. The Act aims to help children who come into conflict with the law to rebuild their lives and become productive members of society through restorative justice measures, diversion programmes and alternative sentencing options.
The department said the legislation is designed to balance accountability with rehabilitation, ensuring that children are given opportunities to learn from their mistakes and reintegrate into their communities.
As part of the campaign, officials also donated dignity bags containing essential hygiene, comfort and personal care items to children accommodated at the centre. The care packages were distributed to both boys and girls residing at the facility.
According to the department, the dignity bags are intended to support the well-being and dignity of young people in care while demonstrating government’s commitment to protecting vulnerable children.
The outreach formed part of Child Protection Week 2026, an annual campaign aimed at promoting children’s rights, safeguarding their welfare and encouraging communities to play an active role in protecting young people from harm.
The department said initiatives such as these contribute to broader efforts to ensure access to justice for all and to create a safer and more supportive environment for children across South Africa.
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