The Western Cape Department of Social Development (DSD) has pledged to continue monitoring the case of a young rape survivor in the Witzenberg area, following renewed public attention on the matter.
The child was allegedly raped in two separate incidents. The case was first reported to social workers in 2022 and was later transferred to one of the department’s partner organisations.
According to Western Cape MEC for Social Development, Jaco Londt, the department was alerted to the case again last week after details of the matter resurfaced on social media.
Londt confirmed that it had received a report detailing the organisation’s support and interventions for the victim since 2023.
“We followed up with the organisation about its recent interventions to better understand what had transpired. Based on the records provided, it seems they did everything they could to support this child over the last two years,” explained Londt.
He added that a place of safety has been arranged but that the department is waiting on a court decision before transferring the victim.
Regarding the details of the case being shared on social media, Londt condemned the distribution of the victim’s name. He said that the safety of the victim should have been prioritised.
“Tensions are understandably running high in the area, but naming the child on social media is unacceptable, and rather than helping causes further harm. I ask that we work together to protect her and all other vulnerable children,” said Londt.
Witzenberg ward councillor Andile Gili believes Londt’s statement was prompted by a memorandum handed to his department by protestors last week.
Gili said the protest, in the height of the #JusticeForCweCwe movement, aimed to demand justice for all victims of rape – including the young girl in the Witzenberg area.
“We will continue to mobilize our community and engage with government departments that have acknowledged and accepted our memorandum. We look forward to meeting with the relevant authorities within 14 days to discuss our demands and the actions that will be taken to address our concerns,” said Gili.
Meanwhile, the DSD said it has reached out to A21, a non-profit specialising in human trafficking, to raise awareness around all forms of victimisation in the region.
