By Jonk wa Mashamba
news@alexreporter.co.za
Limpopo MEC for Social Development Nkakareng Rakgoale says the murder of an 11-month old boy allegedly by his own mother, has once again placed a spotlight on the safety of children.
Spokesperson Witness Tiva said the Department of Social Development immediately dispatched a team of social workers to Halambani Tswinganani village for them to provide psychosocial support to the family of an 11-month old boy.
According to Tiva, the police say a 42- year-old woman locked herself and her 11 months old baby inside the hut and started beating him up.
“The local community members reportedly heard the frantic cries of the baby and rushed to the house.
“After realizing that the door was locked, they broke it open and rescued the badly injured baby from the mother,” said Tiva.
The baby was rushed to the local Lambani Clinic but was unfortunately declared dead on arrival.
Rakgoale says it is infinitely sad to learn of the shocking incident, especially at a time the country is commemorating Child Protection Week which started yesterday, (May 31 2021).
“The Department of Social Development is saddened by the death of this 11-month old baby. What is worrying is that the incident happens at a time we are supposed to be showing love and appreciation to the children we are having. (They are) our gifts from God.
“Child abuse must just come to an end. We are urging parents who are having problems with their children or in their relationships, not to resort to violence, but to approach our social workers who are professionals, for an intervention.
“Let us use Child Protection Week to redouble our efforts in protecting and caring for children, as the law demand of us to do that. Social workers will provide psychosocial support to all the parties that have been affected by this sad incident, ” says Rakgoale.
