National Child Protection Week was launched on a Territorial level, where all THQ staff, officers, and the Mission Team were invited to gather and reflect on the significance of protecting children. Observed from 31 May to 07 June, this year’s theme is “Working Together to End Violence Against Children.”
Khanyisile Sithole, Children’s Ministry Coordinator, opened the launch with a warm welcome and highlighted the importance of National Child Protection Week. She emphasised The Salvation Army’s commitment to defending the God-given rights of children and participating in a united response to the deep and lasting impact of abuse on young lives.
She continued to challenge everyone present, stressing that working together means refusing to turn a blind eye to the struggles faced by children in our communities. “We have failed our children. We have normalised keeping quiet about the things happening in our society, especially at home, because we fear what people will say and often label these issues as taboo,” she said. “Teach your children what you learned at a late stage earlier. Have those uncomfortable conversations.”
A challenge was placed upon parents, sisters, uncles, grandmothers, and all those responsible for protecting children. It is not only about the children one has given birth to, but a shared responsibility for all to ensure their safety and well-being. As highlighted in Matthew 18:6, “If anyone causes one of these little ones—those who believe in me—to stumble, it would be better for them to have a large millstone hung around their neck and to be drowned in the depths of the sea.”
The launch featured two guest speakers: Miss Bonisiwe Mbatha, a Gender-Based Violence Social Worker, and Captain Nonkosazana Memani, Administrator at Ethembeni Children’s Home. Their presentations focused on the theme, “Passion to Protect and Driven by Compassion.” Both speakers shared insightful reflections on the reality that children are often abused by people they know and trust, rather than by strangers. South African statistics continue to reveal that abuse can occur in places where children should feel the safest—at home, at school, and even within the Church.
A candle-lighting ceremony led by the TC was held as a sign of commitment by all staff members, especially the men, who pledged to speak up and take an active role in protecting children. The commitment highlighted the importance of sensitising communities and breaking the myth that men should not be involved in child protection awareness. As fathers and role models to future generations, the men declared their commitment to protecting both boys and girls, refusing to turn a blind eye to abuse and violence.
They further affirmed that they would not take matters into their own hands but would instead support victims by connecting them with the appropriate support services and resources needed for healing and protection. The ceremony served as a powerful reminder that “It takes a village to raise a child.”
National Child Protection Week serves as an important reminder, but protecting children must remain a daily commitment and practice. The Territory continues to encourage all Corps, Centres, and communities to nurture and promote the safety, protection, and well-being of all children. Officers at the Corps level have also been encouraged to continue with Child Protection Week activities within their respective Corps, with many expected to host their programmes on 31 May 2026 across all eight Divisions.