Advocates urge strong leadership qualities for incoming Children's Commissioner
Children's rights organisations and lobby groups across the Western Cape are calling for a speedy resolution to begin the process of appointing a strong and capable Children's Commissioner to ensure the protection, safety, and well-being of vulnerable children.
Voices from various organisations, including prominent figures in child rights advocacy, highlighted the urgent need for such a commissioner to be empowered with real authority and resources.
These calls were grounded in frustrations with the state of child protection, where government inefficiencies, lack of responsibility, and not enough action had often left children at risk.
Lucinda Evans, founder and director of Philisa Abafazi Bethu, a leading child rights organisation, expressed a vision for the future of the Children's Commissioner role.
“I think the Children's Commissioner should have a dual functionality, one attached to the Department of Social Development, but also one attached to the Premier's Office. We don't need somebody that is toothless.”
Evans emphasised the need for a commissioner who could act decisively across government structures, particularly pointing out how ineffective and lacklustre the previous children's commissioner had been in addressing critical issues such as baby savers.
Evans argued that the commissioner should be someone with the power to challenge policies, question the effectiveness of the Children’s Act, and hold departments accountable.
“We want a commissioner who is visible and present in the spaces where children are, and who collaborates with organisations that work directly with children,” Evans explained.
This close partnership with child organisations, according to Evans, would ensure that the voice of the child is always at the centre of policy decisions.
According to Evans, the lack of a dedicated budget and office for the previous commissioner had resulted in inaction on the grave issues facing children, including child killings, abuse, and rape.
“The position of Children's Commissioner is needed to not only act as a voice for children but also advocate for systemic policy changes, including working closely with both the Department of Education and Social Development.
“That is why I believe the new commissioner must be someone who can breathe life into the role, tackling policy gaps and holding those in power accountable.
“We want to see a Children's Commissioner that will challenge the current Children's Act.
“There are huge craters in the Act and the provisions for safety, for example just look at the conditions of our child and youth care centres!.”
Patrick Solomans, chairman of Molo Songololo also called on the Provincial Government to act swiftly in appointing a new commissioner.
“Five years ago, after years and years of advocacy by Molo Songololo and many other child rights organisations, a Western Cape Commissioner for Children (WCCC) was appointed.
“Their role was to monitor, investigate, and raise awareness of child rights issues. However, I believe their role was compromised due to the administrative arrangement and oversight by the Premier's Office and lack of oversight by the provincial legislature.”
He emphasised that the WCCC must thrive in its independence while working closely with children organisations who are often the voices of the children. He also urged that the process of appointing a new commissioner begin promptly.
“The role of the Children's Commissioner is to act as a dedicated advocate for children's rights, ensuring that policies and programmes effectively address their needs.
“The commissioner must consult with children, raise their concerns, and engage with stakeholders to effectively monitor the implementation of child rights policies.”
After a media enquiry was sent by the Weekend Argus, Benedicta van Minnen, the DA Western Cape Spokesperson on Premier and Constitutional Matters confirmed the commencement of the process to appoint a new Children's Commissioner.
Van Minnen explained that during a procedural briefing held on Valentine’s Day, the Standing Committee on Premier and Constitutional Matters was informed by the Department of the Premier about the steps to identify a suitable candidate.
“The position, mandated by the Western Cape Constitution, plays a critical role in protecting and promoting the rights, needs, and interests of children across the province.
“The Commissioner works closely with key departments, including Education, Health, Social Development, and Cultural Affairs and Sport, to ensure children’s well-being remains a priority.“
“As an independent institution, the Commissioner reports to the Provincial Parliament on progress and activities, ensuring accountability and transparency.
“The Commissioner is appointed and removed by the Premier on the recommendation of the Provincial Parliament. ”
She said the position will soon be advertised, and called for public nominations to ensure a transparent and inclusive selection process.
Ilitha Labantu spokesperson Siya Monakali said, while the new process of appointment is seen as a crucial step in rectifying the gaps in child protection, he stressed that simply filling the vacancy was not enough.
“The new commissioner must be equipped with the authority, resources, and legislative backing to implement concrete changes that would benefit children. This appointment cannot be a symbolic gesture—it must be backed by a firm commitment to action.”
tracy-lynn.ruiters@inl.co.za