UKUTHWALA violates children’s rights in the name of culture.
That’s what Sbu Biyela, deputy manager of children rights in the premier’s office in KZN, told delegates at Port Shepstone Civic Centre on Tuesday.
“An old man with a big stomach like me drives an old Mercedes-Benz, parks in front of the gate and forces a grade 4 girl into the car.
“He then sends an SMS to the girl’s parents, saying if they want their daughter, they should come to him and they would be paid R6 000,” Biyela said.
He was speaking at an event organised by Ugu Municipality.
Biyela praised the municipality for its structures that focus on children’s rights.
He said luckily ukuthwala had never occurred in areas under the municipality.
Ugu mayor Ntombifikile Gumede quoted Nelson Mandela when he said: “Our children are our greatest treasure, they are our future. Those who abuse them tear at the fabric of our society and weaken our nation.”
Gumede told the delegates: “The reality is that the South Africa we live in today is a much better place to bring up a girl child.
“The opportunities are endless.
“Today women are free to become anything they want as long as they are willing to work hard.
“Those of us who grew up under apartheid envy the young women of today who now have a chance to become scientists, engineers, judges, farmers, winemakers and many other things.”
Grade 12 pupil Nompilo Hlabe (17) from St John’s High School in Bhobhoyi, also attended the event.
Nompilo said it’s time for people to change their attitude towards young girls.
“We also have rights, just like boys.”
Ukuthwala is still prevalant in areas like Umzimkhulu and Harry Gwala.
