Child Protection Week: Addressing the rising number of missing children in South Africa
Skyla Jade remains missing
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As South Africa prepares to mark Child Protection Week, concerns are mounting over the growing number of children reported missing across communities, with organisations on the ground warning that children as young as 13 are increasingly vulnerable to danger, exploitation and emotional distress.
The renewed concern comes after a 13-year-old girl from Manenberg was safely reunited with family earlier this week after she had been missing since May 18.
According to her aunt, the ordeal sent the family into “total panic” after the child and her biological mother suddenly disappeared.
“My heart shattered when they couldn’t be found,” she said.
“The last time we saw them, the mom went to the house, she packed her bags and she left. She took the child with her and left.”
The aunt said alarm bells began ringing when the teenager failed to attend school and her school clothes remained at home.
“The child wasn’t in school, her school clothes were still at home. We went into total panic.”
The teenager was eventually found safely on Tuesday morning with her biological mother.
“She was found safe.
“To those who shared the post, who spread the word, a huge thank you for all the support and prayers. It really takes a village.
“My heart is now at ease.”
Police spokesperson Captain FC Van Wyk said while South African Police Service in Manenberg had no official records of the child being reported missing at the station, police were aware of the matter.
“According to SAPS Manenberg missing person co-ordinator, the victim in question is a primary school learner and she returned safely home earlier today,” Van Wyk said.
The case has once again highlighted the emotional trauma families endure when children disappear, even for a short period, and has renewed calls for stronger child protection measures ahead of Child Protection Week.
Veranique “Benji” Williams from Faith and Hope Missing Persons said the organisation often notices spikes in missing children cases involving youngsters around the age of 13.
“Children around the age of 13 often go missing because they are at a very vulnerable stage in life. They are becoming teenagers, wanting independence, but they still need strong protection and guidance,” Williams explained.
She said several factors contribute to children disappearing, including peer pressure, social media dangers, family conflict, bullying, emotional struggles and exploitation.
“Some of the common reasons include peer pressure and bad influences wanting to fit in with friends or older people. Problems at home such as conflict, abuse, neglect, strict discipline, or feeling misunderstood can cause children to run away.
“Social media dangers, online predators, fake friendships, grooming, and meeting strangers through apps also place children at risk.”
Williams added that many children silently battle emotional and mental health challenges.
“Bullying at school or in the community is another issue. Many children suffer in silence and feel like escaping. Mental and emotional struggles like depression, anxiety, loneliness or low self-esteem also play a role.”
Its almost a month since Deowin dissapeared
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She warned that vulnerable children are often targeted by dangerous individuals involved in human trafficking and exploitation, while exposure to drugs and alcohol can further place minors in unsafe environments.
“At 13, children are still emotionally young even if they act grown up. They need love, attention, guidance, protection and open communication.”
Williams urged parents and communities to become more proactive in safeguarding children.
“Parents and communities can help by listening to children without judging them, monitoring social media and friendships, teaching safety and stranger awareness, and encouraging children to speak when something feels wrong.”
She also encouraged families to keep updated photographs and information of their children readily available in the event of emergencies.
“Every child matters, and early intervention can save lives,” she said.