The Eastern Cape Provincial Government observed the International Children s Day in Humansdorp, in the Sarah Baartman District Municipality, recently. The commemoration was held under the theme: Our Safety, a Prosperous Future - We should be Protected, please don t hurt us!”

The programme, which seeks to address violence against children of the Eastern Cape, took the shape of a multi-stakeholder dialogue session including children ambassadors, parents, church leaders and traditional leaders.

Delegates participated in discussions around the violence affecting children within their homes, at schools and among society in general.

Child trafficking and the exploitation of children through illegal employment practices especially in the farm areas, was also at the centre of issues discussed.

The dialogue session is geared towards improving the Provincial response to challenges relating to the protection and advancement of children s rights.