#JusticeForCwecwe: A Nation Unites to Protect It's Children

In October 2024, at Bergview College in Matatiele, Eastern Cape, a seven-year-old girl affectionately name “Cwecwe” was allegedly assaulted while waiting for her transport home. This tragic incident not only devastated her family but also highlighted serious issues in how such cases are handled.

When Cwecwe came home acting differently and feeling uncomfortable, her mother, a 30-year-old police officer and survivor of assault, was very concerned. The next day, as her daughter’s pain grew worse, she took her to the doctor. The diagnosis was heartbreaking: evidence of assault (Citizen.co.za). Wanting justice for Cwecwe, her mother reported the incident to both the school and the police on 16 October 2024. The school, instead of offering support or starting an investigation, gave her a transfer letter for Cwecwe—a move that seemed like they were avoiding responsibility.

This reaction from Bergview College made the family’s pain even worse.

The police response was also disappointing. Despite the seriousness of the case, the investigation moved slowly. Important steps, like taking statements and collecting DNA samples from possible suspects, were delayed. The mother was frustrated, noting that her daughter’s statement was only taken three weeks after the report. She also mentioned that DNA tests weren’t done on the people who had been near her child at the time. The investigating officer said there was a “shortage of manpower,” which caused the delays.

The Spark of a Movement

As the news spread, public anger grew. The hashtag #JusticeForCwecwe became popular on social media, showing a united demand for accountability and change. This lead to the creation of the petition Justice for Cwecwe which can be accessed here: www.petitions.net/justice_for_cwecwe.

On 31 March 2025, a significant peaceful protest took place in Cape Town, drawing thousands of participants. Organised by various child advocacy groups, the demonstrators marched from the District Six Museum to the Parliament building, demanding expedited judicial proceedings and stricter safety protocols in educational institutions. Speakers at the event emphasised the necessity of creating safe environments for children and holding institutions accountable for their failures.

On 1 April 2025 in East London, protesters, led by the Loyiso Lindani Foundation, marched to the Magistrate’s Court, demanding that cases of sexual assault be treated with the urgency and seriousness they warrant. In Johannesburg, for accountability and change. This lead to the creation of the petition Justice for Cwecwe which can be accessed here: www.petitions.net/justice_for_cwecwe.

On 31 March 2025, a significant peaceful protest took place in Cape Town, drawing thousands of participants. Organised by various child advocacy groups, the demonstrators marched from the District Six Museum to the Parliament building, demanding expedited judicial proceedings and stricter safety protocols in educational institutions. Speakers at the event emphasised the necessity of creating safe environments for children and holding institutions accountable for their failures.

On 1 April 2025 in East London, protesters, led by the Loyiso Lindani Foundation, marched to the Magistrate’s Court, demanding that cases of sexual assault be treated with the urgency and seriousness they warrant. In Johannesburg, on 2 April 2025, another peaceful rally was held in Nelson Mandela Square. Attendees lit candles and shared personal stories, fostering a sense of solidarity and collective mourning. These protests underscore the widespread public support for

Cwecwe and her family, amplifying the urgent call for systemic reforms to protect vulnerable children.

A Nation’s Demand for Accountability

The public’s fervent demand for justice has not gone unnoticed. Basic Education Minister Siviwe Gwarube addressed the nation, emphasising the sanctity of educational institutions as places of safety and learning. In response to mounting pressure, the Eastern Cape Department of Education took decisive action by deregistering Bergview College. This move signified a commitment to holding institutions accountable and ensuring that such lapses in duty of care are met with appropriate consequences. However, that deregistration was withdrawn several days later (News24.co.za).

The Role of Advocacy and Support Organisations

Amidst the turmoil, organisations dedicated to child welfare have played a pivotal role. Child Welfare South Africa (CWSA), the largest child protection non-profit in the country, has been at the forefront of advocating for children’s rights. With a presence in over 200 communities, CWSA’s mission encompasses protecting children from all forms of abuse and exploitation, establishing networks to safeguard their well-being, and providing support to affiliated organisations to

ensure quality services(Childwelfaresa.org.za).

A Unified Call to Action

What happened to Cwecwe and her family reminds us of the dangers children can face and the need to protect them. It shows the importance of institutions responding quickly and properly to reports of abuse. As a society, we must work to create environments where children are safe, and justice is guaranteed. The #JusticeForCwecwe movement demonstrates the power of people coming together to support those who need it. It calls on everyone to prioritise the well-being of our children and ensure that such tragedies are met with decisive and compassionate responses. Together, we can forge a society where the innocence of every child is cherished and their safety is paramount. Follow #JusticeForCwecwe to join the movement.

Sources: www.citizen.co.za, www.news24.co.za,