• A powerful voice from Mopani has exposed the painful realities faced by elderly citizens living amidst rising substance abuse.
• Community engagement ahead of Child Protection Month revealed how addiction is fuelling both elder and child abuse in rural homes.
• As departments respond with services and support, citizens like Ntate Lazarus are calling for lasting action to protect the most vulnerable.

In the heart of Lebaka Village, Mopani District, a powerful plea rang out from 88-year-old Lazarus Lefuphale, who shared the harsh reality faced by many older persons in the community. Speaking during a community engagement session ahead of the national Child Protection Month commemoration, Lefuphale warned that substance abuse is driving a disturbing rise in elder abuse.

“Young people leave taverns drunk and come straight to our homes. They know we are vulnerable, and they steal our pension money to fund their habits. Sometimes, they go as far as raping elderly women. We report the cases, but nothing is being done,” he said, his voice heavy with concern.

The engagement, held as part of build-up activities leading to the Child Protection Commemoration on Sunday, 08 June 2025, gave community members a platform to speak openly about the social ills affecting their daily lives. Residents identified substance abuse as a common thread behind many of the challenges, from child neglect to crime and violence.

Government departments, including the Department of Social Development and the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development, were on hand to provide information, services, and support to residents. Officials showcased available programmes and referred cases raised during the session.

Mr David Shabalala, Director for the Office on the Rights of the Child at the Department of Social Development, emphasised the importance of promoting both the rights and responsibilities of children. “Children must be empowered to claim their rights, but we must also teach them to take responsibility for their actions,” said Shabalala. “They must be part of the solution to issues like teenage pregnancy, drug use, and sexual abuse.”

He noted that children’s forums have been established in all municipalities to ensure young people can engage directly with local government and be part of decision-making structures. Platforms such as the Mandela Children’s Parliament also ensure children’s voices are heard on national matters.

The session ended with a strong message encouraging community members to act on the knowledge gained and take ownership of solutions to build a safer, more accountable society.
For Ntate Lazarus and many others, the road ahead is still difficult. But by raising their voices and demanding change, they are helping ensure that the safety and dignity of the elderly and the future of the youth are protected.