White River:Mbombela: Social Development Minister Dina Pule is at the forefront of a Children's Summit aimed at ending violence against children, as South Africa hosts this significant event at the ANEW Hotel in White River, Mpumalanga. This summit comes in preparation for the Second Global Ministerial Conference on Ending Violence Against Children.
According to South African Government News Agency, the Department of Social Development has highlighted that the two-day event aims to amplify children's voices, ensuring their priorities shape renewed commitments and accountability processes. The Summit also seeks to develop recommendations informed by children and promote partnerships across various sectors including government, civil society, and the private sector.
The First Global Ministerial Conference on Ending Violence Against Children took place in 2024 in Bogot¡, Colombia, where South Africa committed to implementing seven key initiatives across 52 districts. With children's vulnerability to violence in various settings, including digital spaces, this summit emphasizes child participation in policymaking through inclusive approaches that allow them to express their views and experiences.
The event is attended by representatives from several departments such as Social Development, Basic Education, Health, and Justice, alongside the National Prosecuting Authority, South African Police Service, and child protection organizations. Children, including Child Ambassadors from all nine provinces, and participants from NGOs and religious and traditional sectors, are also actively participating in the summit's discussions.