Child tragedy

I condemn the murder of 5-year-old Kaithlyn Wilson from Bloedrivier, Riebeek West, in the strongest terms possible.

This is a tragic start to Women’s Month, and shines a spotlight on the dangers faced by women and the girl child.

Social workers from our NGO partner working in the area, and those from the Western Cape Department of Social Development (DSD) will make contact with the family and render bereavement counselling.

We commend the actions of the community who immediately assisted the family in looking for the girl, and the swift response by the police, who ensured that two men suspected of having murdered Kaithlyn were arrested.

Disturbingly, like similar cases, the murderers are seemingly known and perhaps even trusted by the victim.

One of the suspects is allegedly the ex-boyfriend of the deceased child’s mother.

As we mark the start of Women’s Month, I’m very concerned about the recent spate of child murders in the province.

DSD has a zero-tolerance approach to any form of harm and abuse of children, and the Children’s Act of 2005 enjoins us all to place the best interests of children first.

DSD will support the family during this difficult time, and render any support needed.

I continue to call on parents and communities to be extra vigilant of their children. Albert Fritz Social Development MEC