By Lebone Rodah Mosima
The Department of Social Development has welcomed the gazetting of the Children’s Amendment Bill, 2025, calling it a milestone in strengthening the protection and care of children across the country.
The Bill aims to close legislative gaps, align childcare law with court rulings, and provide stronger safeguards against violence, neglect and exploitation.
Officials said the Bill reinforces constitutional rights by guaranteeing protection from abuse, neglect, exploitation, and unnecessary separation from families and communities.
“This represents a decisive step towards building a safer, more inclusive, and responsive child protection framework,” the Department said.
The Children’s Act has long been the cornerstone of childcare legislation. But gaps in implementation have led to litigation and inconsistencies. The new Bill seeks to clarify those weaknesses, secure children’s rights, and strengthen the national protection system.
Among its key provisions, the Bill regulates the position of unmarried fathers, prohibits all forms of child abandonment — including the use of baby boxes — and designates a registrar of the National Child Protection Register.
It also guarantees legal representation for children in abduction cases, expedites related court processes, and sets standards for interactions between children and the media.
Further measures expand the role of provincial Departments of Social Development and municipalities in establishing and managing partial care facilities.
The Bill also provides enhanced protection for children with disabilities to ensure inclusion in all aspects of society.
On adoption and surrogacy, the Bill introduces tighter regulations, including provisions for inter-country adoption in partnership with the Minister of Health.
It also lays out improved procedures for supporting unaccompanied migrant children, a growing area of concern.
The Department urged stakeholders, civil society, and the public to engage with the Bill during the consultation process.
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