Issued by : Ministry of Social Development
30 September 2002
The Minister of Social Development, Dr. Zola Skweyiya, will tomorrow (1st October at 11:00), unveil a massive plan that will be rolled out in October (Social Development Month), which is aimed at assisting children who live in poverty; those with disabilities; those who are abused and those affected by HIV/ AIDS and other conditions of vulnerability.
The occasion will take place at the HSRC Building Foyer (Cnr Bosman and Pretorious Streets).
"The cries of our children are loud. They cry about rape and abuse; they cry about poverty; they cry about HIV/AIDS and other diseases. The time has come for all of us not only to listen to these cries but to respond even more decisively than ever before. We are therefore embarking on a massive campaign during October that is aimed at ensuring that the children's rights as enshrined in our constitution are indeed translated into reality. The children are the custodians of our future and we all owe it to them and our destiny to build a better life for all. 1st October also constitutes part of marking International Day of Older Persons (October 1st) as they have been and continue to be the primary care-givers of our beloved children", said the Minister.
The Minister is expected to among others to outline the following:
The Minister will also provide details of the Plan of Action for Social Development Month, which is dedicated to children and this will include the programmes to be undertaken with the business sector, labour , faith based organisations, and NGO's.
The theme for this year's Social Development Month is "Lend a Hand to Protect Children's Rights".
Older persons, children and representatives of civil society will join the occasion.
Enquiries: Mbulelo Musi
Cell : 082 904 3395