Social Development in the North West Basetsana Sussana Dantjie on Monday said there can be no justification for abandoning children after giving birth.
MEC Dantjie was reacting to a report on social media about new born baby that was found abandoned in Neserhof, Klerksdorp on Saturday. According to information received, the child is in a healthy condition. A lady who went for an early morning walk found the baby under a tree in Kolonel Nel Street. The baby was swaddled in a blanket with a carton of milk and a few nappies next to him. The police were called to the scene. They took the child to Klerksdorp Hospital.
“I am so shocked by this incident. At this time and age, it is not justifiable for girl or woman to abandon the baby. At the time of giving birth, mothers have the right to give their newborn babies to the hospital nurses who will in turn liaise with our social workers for placement at the temporary safe care facilities. Depending on the outcome of the investigation, an abandoned child can be placed with the family member who has shown interest on the child or be placed under adoption,” Dantjie said, adding that her department is working closely with Rata non-profit organisation which is responsible for child protection services in the area.
Dantjie, whose department is the custodian of Children’s Act, is scheduled to deliver a set of layette including milk for the baby during her visit to temporary safe care facility in Matlosana on Tuesday (17 September 2024) at 15h30.
ENDS.
Issued by North West Department of Social Development
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