Nietverdiend, Ramotshere Moiloa Local Municipality – Raising awareness about human trafficking in farm schools is essential to protecting vulnerable children from exploitation, said Acting Head of Department for Social Development, Ms Peggy Mhlongo-Kgaboesele.
Addressing learners at Nietverdiend Hoërskool on Wednesday as part of World Day Against Trafficking in Persons, Mhlongo-Kgaboesele emphasised the importance of educating young people on the dangers of trafficking and equipping them with the knowledge to stay safe.
Observed annually on 30 July, World Day Against Trafficking in Persons aims to promote the protection of trafficking victims and strengthen global efforts to combat this heinous crime. This year, the theme is: “Trafficking is Organised Crime: End Exploitation.”
“Children are particularly vulnerable to trafficking due to behaviours such as hitchhiking, alcohol abuse, and a general lack of awareness,” said Mhlongo-Kgaboesele. “Prevention starts with education—raising awareness among learners, educators, and parents is the first critical step.”
The awareness campaign introduced learners to the concept of human trafficking, its devastating consequences—including prostitution, organ harvesting, forced marriages, drug trafficking, and various forms of exploitation—and the methods traffickers use to lure and trap their victims.
The campaign also highlighted children’s rights, how trafficking infringes upon them, and how learners can protect themselves and others.
Later in the day, Mhlongo-Kgaboesele led a multi-disciplinary team of social workers and SAPS officials in a community outreach activity at Kopfontein Border Post, distributing educational pamphlets to truck drivers and travellers. The border, which connects South Africa to Botswana and other SADC countries, is a known hotspot for trafficking activity due to its strategic location.
Law enforcement agencies confirmed that cases of human trafficking have been reported in the surrounding areas, further underlining the importance of awareness and early intervention.
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ENDS
Issued by:
North West Department of Social Development
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