08 Dec 2013

Every child should grow in an environment that is conducive and where there is provision of all basic necessities.

This environment includes the right to education, which should be attended by all children as it would help them overcome challenges later in life.

Speaking at a family day for SOS children at Planet North Hotel recently, Gerald court president, Kgosi Paul Motshwane said the United Nations (UN) has adopted a pivotal role in protecting children through the Children`s Act which calls for the protection of  their rights.

Kgosi Motshwane said whenever decisions are made involving children, they should be in their best interest. He noted that the act has influenced the country to adopt one of the pillars of Vision 2016, which calls for a just, compassionate and caring nation. Furthermore, he commended the SOS Village for responding towards the call despite the challenges they faced.

Kgosi Motshwane said he was aggrieved after reading one of the articles in the local newspapers, which stated that the village may close due to financial constraints. Kgosi Motshwane said the day calls for introspection by non-governmental organisations’ (NGOs), the business community, private companies and parastatals. He said he was disappointed by the non attendance by government and relevant stakeholders.

Kgosi Motshwane stated that it was time for all stakeholders to plough back into the community.  He said it was time for stakeholders to dig deep into their pockets and assist where possible.

“The village cannot respond to the call alone, we should all stand up for the rights of children,” he stressed. He said the reason the village was in existence was because of one person who found himself faced with challenges as he was an orphan. He said realising that he was not the only orphan, he built a home in Austria in 1949 and later it spread to other countries.

Furthermore, Kgosi Motshwane said if the village came into existence because of one person, there was nothing that can hinder all relevant stakeholders to play their role and create an environment of love and compassion. ENDS