26 September 2002
The Minister of Social Development Dr. Zola Skweyiya will today (26 September, 2002 at 14:00), address a special debate on child rape in Parliament, Cape Town, where he is expected to call on the entire nation to unite against the rape of children and urge Members of Parliament and the entire society to join hands in the campaign to promote children's rights which starts in October.
"I appeal and urge all sectors of our society to join the Department of Social Development Department in the October Month Campaign to promote and protect the rights of children and make sure that all children who are eligible to grants are registered and do actually access them. We dare not allow our children to die of malnutrition. History will indeed judge us very harshly for not acting or acting slowly when the cry of the millions of our children who live in poverty, who are abused and rape; who are affected by HIV/ AIDS and other diseases; are disabled; is so loud. Let us all Lend a Hand to Protect children's rights." Said the Minister.
Meanwhile, Minister Skweyiya will outline the detailed plan for Social Development Month when he tomorrow (26 September, 2002 at 10:00) addresses the celebration of older persons who are above 100 years in Gauteng.
The occasion is organised by the MEC for Social Development in Gauteng Ms Angie Motshekga and will take place at Boksburg North.
Issued by: Ministry of Social Development