The Commission for the Promotion and Protection of the Rights of Cultural, Religious, and Linguistic Communities strongly affirms its support for National Child Protection Week (May 29 to June 5, 2025), a significant annual event in South Africa. This Week is not just a celebration, but a vital opportunity to actively raise awareness of children’s rights, as guaranteed by the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa and the Children’s Act (Act No. 38 of 2005).
The CRL Rights Commission wishes all young people who will be undergoing traditional customary initiation a safe winter season and urges all responsible law enforcement agencies and traditional authorities to take decisive action in line with the Customary Initiation Act No. 2 of 2021, to ensure a safe and secure winter season in 2025.
The Commission calls upon all involved or working with children in one way or another to ensure unwavering compliance with the Children’s Act No. 38 of 2005. Among other crucial stipulations that require ongoing enforcement include among others:
- South African Police Clearance Certificate, also known as SAPS PCC
- Sexual Offenders Register’s Clearance
- Children’s Protection or Register’s Check.
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In light of these requirements, the Commission urges all individuals working with children in religious and cultural settings to comply with this law. These include Pastors/Reverends, oGobela/iZangoma, oNomehlo, Initiation School Principals, Traditional Surgeons, and Traditional Nurses.
For enquiries, contact:
Beverly Mukhavhuli Tel: 011 358 9100; beverleyM@crlcommission.org.za
Mpiyakhem@crlcommission.org.za; MpiyakheM@crlcommission.org.za