By Tholakele Makena.

• Young delegates from all nine provinces actively participated, proving that children’s voices are integral to shaping policies that affect their lives.
• Minister Sisisi Tolashe has announced the publication of the Children’s Amendment Bill, which is now open for a 30-day public comment period regarding significant child protection reforms.
• The inauguration of 2025 Child Ambassadors and signing of the Children’s Rights Pledge underscored national dedication to building a society where every child is protected, heard, and empowered.

The National Legislature was filled with energy optimism and purpose today as children from across the country gathered for the official sitting of the Nelson Mandela Children’s Parliament, hosted at the Good Hope Chamber, Parliament of South Africa, in Cape Town. The sitting served as a meaningful platform for young voices to be heard on matters affecting their lives, demonstrating a strong commitment to child participation in democratic processes.
The session began with the singing of the National Anthem, followed by a moment of silence in honour of children whose lives have been lost due to violence, poverty, and other social challenges. Key presentations were delivered by UNICEF South Africa, the Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund, and Save the Children South Africa, each reaffirming their dedication to advancing the rights and well-being of children.
Delivering the keynote address, the Minister of Social Development, Honourable Ms Sisisi Tolashe, reiterated government’s commitment to strengthening child protection through legislative reform. She announced that the Children’s Amendment Bill was gazetted on 29 September 2025 and is currently open for a 30-day public comment period. The Bill aims to enhance child protection systems and ensure that the voices of children are reflected in the development of policy.
Among the young delegates was Phalo Damba, a 15-year-old representative from Gauteng, who spoke about the daily challenges children face in his community, including littered streets and the presence of inappropriate pamphlets, such as those advertising abortions, which he believes have a negative influence on young people. He recommended that the government and relevant departments remove harmful materials and instead promote constructive and motivational messaging, such as posters for initiatives like the Children’s Parliament, which he said are rarely visible in his community. According to Phalo, such positive content can inspire children to see themselves as future leaders.
Representing the Department of Social Development, Deputy Director-General for Welfare Services, Ms Siza Magangoe, highlighted the department’s focus on child protection, appropriate budget allocation for children’s services, and the safeguarding of children’s rights and responsibilities. She emphasised the importance of collaboration, noting that the department works closely with the Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund, Save the Children South Africa, and the Department of Basic Education (DBE).
Ms Magangoe also noted that provincial engagements were conducted ahead of the national sitting, ensuring that children from different regions had the opportunity to raise their voices and share their experiences.
The highlight of the session was the inauguration of the 2025 Child Ambassadors and the signing of the Pledge for Children’s Rights by Ministers, the Speaker of the National Assembly, the Chairperson of the National Council of Provinces (NCOP), and child representatives.
The parliament sitting aligns with Social Development Month and DSD’s mission to strengthen families, promote children’s participation, and build a caring society where no child is left behind.

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