More than two months after the arrest of a man accused of sexually abusing his nine-year-old niece-by-marriage, the child’s mother said her daughter’s condition had worsened and she was still struggling to access basic support such as nappies and food her family urgently needed.
The 47-year-old accused, who is known to People’s Post, remained in custody following his appearance in the Wynberg Magistrates’ Court in June, when bail was denied. He was expected to appear again via virtual proceedings on Thursday 14 August. The child was living with her aunt and uncle in Imizamo Yethu, Hout Bay, while her mother received treatment in the Eastern Cape. After returning to Cape Town and learning of her daughter’s condition the mother sought help at Victoria Hospital, where doctors confirmed physical injuries consistent with penetration. The child was referred for counselling and forensic examination.
Doctors might remove the womb
However, the mother said her daughter’s health remained at risk. “She has a sore underneath, she leaks and the doctors say it’s due to damage to her womb,” she told People’s Post. “They said if it doesn’t heal they may have to consider removing it. That’s my biggest fear. She’s only a child.”
The mother said the child now relied on adult nappies, which are costly and difficult to replace regularly. “The hospital gave us maternity pads, but they’re not enough. I have no income and receive only a child grant. Everything is overwhelming.”
The family lived in a one-room shack with the mother’s 19-year-old son, who had been living alone while she was away. He expressed regret and frustration over the events that unfolded.
“This whole thing angers me,” he said, his voice cracking. “Had she lived with me instead my sister would’ve been safe.”
In response to questions from People’s Post the Western Cape Department of Health and Wellness confirmed facilities such as the Thuthuzela Care Centre at Victoria Hospital provided trauma containment counselling, medical treatment and referrals for survivors based on individual needs.
Long-term sanitary needs
“In cases involving compounded trauma, referrals may be made to clinical psychologists as was done in this instance,” the department explained. More serious injuries may be referred to specialist hospitals such as Red Cross War Memorial Children’s Hospital. Long-term sanitary needs, however, fall outside hospital capacity and families are advised to approach the Department of Social Development or local NGOs for assistance.
Ward councillor Rob Quintas, who was made aware of the case by People’s Post while on leave abroad, said in a statement, “I am horrified to hear of this case and deeply saddened by the ongoing trauma experienced by the young victim and her family. Our society has no place for degenerates who inflict lifelong harm on children, and I pray the alleged abuser is brought to book as expediently as possible.”
Quintas recommended that the family contact Community Cohesion, a Hout Bay-based organisation with experience in trauma support and crisis counselling. “They are a vital resource in the community and well-placed to assist in this kind of situation. My door remains open to assisting wherever possible.”
As the legal process unfolds, the mother said her main concern was ensuring her daughter received urgent medical and emotional care.
“She’s still in pain. She’s not sleeping. She’s changed. “And I can’t do this alone.”
