22 February 2023
Media Advisory
As part of implementing the 2017 Anti-Gangsterism Strategy, the Department of Social Development will on 23 – 24 February 2023, hold its Anti-Gangsterism campaign through an interactive dialogue with children and parents in Polokwane, Limpopo, under the theme: “Know the Early Signs and Take Steps to prevent gangsterism.”
The Anti-Gangsterism Strategy calls upon the Department of Social Development to work in collaboration with various stakeholders, including, teachers, members of the South African Police Service (SAPS), parents and children to address gangsterism in communities.
This strategy also seeks amongst other things to; provide direct ways of dealing with children who are affected by gangs as well as threats and risk factors that cut across children and youth in Child and Youth Care Centres and communities at large.
It is in this context that the Department of Social Development is taking a stand against gangsterism in Limpopo, one of the provinces affected by a destructive gangsterism behaviour which impacts negatively on the overall societal wellbeing and safety of children. It is unfortunate that children and young adults are not only witnessing gangsterism as a criminal activity but are also forced to be part.
The Department of Social Development is guided by the Constitution and the Children’s Act 38 of 2005 to promote the welfare and safety of children, including, those who are vulnerable and affected by social ills. Both the Constitution and the Children’s Act, promote the safety and welfare of children affected by many social ills.
This initiative is part of the 365 Days Child Protection campaign which is aimed at promoting children’s rights by protecting them from physical, emotional and psychological abuse.
Members of the media are invited to attend and cover the Anti-Gangsterism dialogues planned as follows:
DIALOGUES WITH CHILDREN
Date: Thursday, 23 February 2023
Time: 08h00 – 13h00
Venue: Secure Care Centre, in Polokwane, Limpopo Province (to be shared upon request)
DIALOGUES WITH PARENTS
Date: Friday, 24 February 2023
Time: 08h00 – 13h00
Venue: Secure Care Centre, in Polokwane, Limpopo Province (to be shared upon request)
Media can RSVP by contacting Ms Ziphelele Siguca on 083 7686 298 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
ISSUED BY THE NATIONAL DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT
Media enquiries may be forwarded to Ms Lumka Oliphant on 083 4848 067 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
