EASTERN CAPE – Child abandonment remains a growing concern in the Eastern Cape, with 48 children abandoned in 2025 and the first quarter of the current financial year.

Social Development MEC Bukiwe Fanta has described the situation as unacceptable, citing poverty, unemployment, teenage pregnancy, gender-based violence and other social challenges as contributing factors.

“I cannot emphasise enough how unacceptable this reality is for our society,” said Fanta.

She said child abandonment is a multifaceted issue, deeply rooted in various social and economic challenges.

Fanta said several social and economic challenges can contribute to child abandonment. These include unemployment and poverty, teenage pregnancy, sexual abuse and gender-based violence.

Family conflict, substance abuse and mental health challenges can also make it difficult for parents or caregivers to provide adequate care. A lack of social support can further compound these challenges, particularly for families without the necessary support systems.

How abandoned children are assisted

“In accordance with the Children’s Act of 2005, any suspected case of child abandonment must be reported immediately to a designated child protection organisation or the Department of Social Development,” said Fanta.

“It is crucial that we respond promptly and effectively to these situations, and our department employs an intersectoral approach to tackle this complex issue.”

The department said its response includes medical examinations, law enforcement involvement, statutory investigations and collaboration with community leaders and other stakeholders.

Working closely with the Department of Health, it ensures that abandoned children undergo comprehensive medical examinations to assess their health and fitness.

Cases are also reported to the South African Police Service (SAPS), which initiates criminal investigations and attempts to trace the parents or caregivers of abandoned children.

Alternative care when families cannot be traced

The department conducts its own investigations as mandated by Regulation 56, including advertising the child’s circumstances to trace their family.

It also engages with community leaders and relevant stakeholders to safeguard the child’s best interests and strengthen care systems.

“If parents or families remain untraceable, the department provides alternative care options, including temporary safe care, placement in a Child and Youth Care Centre (CYCC), foster care or adoption, always prioritising the best interests of the child,” said Fanta.

“As of now, 40 754 children in need of care and protection have been placed in foster care across the province, supported by valid foster care orders. This is in line with the provisions of Chapter 12, sections 156, 159, 176 and 186 of the Children’s Act 38 of 2005.”

Among these children, 1 591 were placed in foster care for the first time following intensive assessments and investigations by social workers.

Fanta said 20 561 of the children in foster care are female, while 20 221 are male.

Of these children, 131 have disabilities, while 7 068 foster children come from poor wards in the province.

Fanta added that her department, authorised under section 187 of the Children’s Act, had successfully reunified 72 children, highlighting its commitment to family reunification wherever possible.

Focus on children with behavioural disorders

Fanta said the department is also actively involved in broader discussions aimed at improving services for children with severe and profound disruptive behaviour disorders.

“Our recent participation in the National Consultative Session focused on identifying cost drivers for providing adequate services to this vulnerable group. Additionally, an intersectoral Provincial Committee Meeting for these children was held in East London, further strengthening our capacity to deliver essential support,” she said.

“As we confront the persistent issue of child abandonment, I urge all sectors of society to take collective responsibility. We must prioritise the welfare of our children and work tirelessly to ensure that no child is left vulnerable or without care.

“It is imperative that we foster an environment where families can thrive, supported by robust social services and community networks.”

Districts record abandonment cases

Fanta urged anyone who suspects a case of child abandonment or knows of a child in need to report it immediately to the Department of Social Development or a local child protection organisation.

“Together we can safeguard the future of our children and build a caring society where every child feels safe, cherished and supported.”

During 2025/26, Alfred Nzo recorded 12 cases, followed by Sarah Baartman with 11, Buffalo City Municipality with eight and OR Tambo with five.

Chris Hani recorded three cases, Nelson Mandela Bay recorded two, while Joe Gqabi recorded one.

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