03 Sep 2026

Selebi Phikwe Town councillors have unanimously welcomed the proposed review and amendment of the Children’s Act, which has been in force since 2009.

Speaking during a full council session, councillors agreed that the current legislation must be strengthened to better protect children and respond to emerging challenges affecting their welfare.

Specially nominated councillor, Mr Mpho Marabu highlighted the need for updating the Act to ensure that it remained relevant to the evolving needs of families. 

He called for a broader approach to child welfare, particularly regarding religious influences during upbringing.

“Children should be protected from practices that could negatively affect their physical, emotional or social development, while still recognising the positive role played by families, communities and religious institutions,” Mr Marabu said, noting that certain religious beliefs could hinder a child’s growth.

Specially nominated councillor, Mr Dimpho Mashaba emphasised the urgency of resolving contradictions between Customary Law and the Children’s Act. 

He noted that while customary practices remained an integral part of local communities, certain traditional provisions conflicted with the protections guaranteed under statutory child law.

He said such legal discrepancies created confusion for both families and traditional authorities, thus urged lawmakers to harmonise the two frameworks to establish a clear and consistent approach to children’s rights.

Meanwhile, Cllr Phemelo Ntlhwane of the Leseding Ward urged reviewers to focus on tightening bail conditions for individuals accused of raping or defiling minors. 

She expressed concern over suspects being routinely released on bail while cases remained pending, which exposed young victims to potential intimidation and further trauma. The council meeting included a briefing from a joint delegation representing the Ministry of Basic Education and Child Welfare and Childline Botswana, led by Childline secretary, Mr Olebile Machete.

Mr Machete explained that the review process aimed to gather concerns and recommendations to build a more responsive child protection system. 

He noted that social challenges had evolved since 2009, hence strong and collaborative legal updates remained essential for safeguarding children’s rights. ENDS