How does one navigate? How does one deal with the issue of human trafficking in today’s world and pick up the pieces?
Right at our doorstop, the disappearance of Joshlin Smith from Middelpos has struck a chord within our communities and has gained the attention of the whole world.
As we look at World Day Against Trafficking in Persons on Wednesday, 30 July, a day observed to bring awareness and advocacy, it is heartbreaking to see how this global threat has ripped the West Coast.
Speaking to Esmarelda McKay, an activist in Saldanha Bay, she said human trafficking is one of the most heinous violations of human rights in our time.
McKay feels that it strips individuals, especially the vulnerable, of their dignity, agency, and safety.
“As a woman, a mother, and a justice activist, I see it as a modern form of slavery that thrives in silence and shame. It’s a painful reminder of how broken our systems still are globally and locally. It’s not just a crime; it’s a betrayal of humanity.”
When it comes to the human trafficking cases that have touched the West Coast, McKay says it has shaken communities to the core.
“We are a close-knit region, and the ripple effects of such trauma are deep. It creates fear, mistrust, and a sense of vulnerability, especially among women and children. But what’s worse is how it often goes unspoken or misunderstood. Our youth are being preyed on under our noses, and our silence can no longer be an option. The West Coast deserves safety, transparency, and justice.”
Norman van Wyk, a community leader and activist in Witteklip, Vredenburg, said it has been proven in the West Coast that there is a great amount of underreporting on human trafficking. “It could be because of the fear of repercussions or the fear of exposure. The fishing communities and farming communities are prone to human trafficking due to the easy access and exits.
“Gang bosses and drug lords are exploiting our youngsters, and many times we as the community feel powerless. Our communities feel the impact. How can we move beyond awareness and translate it into concrete action? It is a sad answer. I don’t think our local police and law enforcement are equipped to work with human trafficking cases. I am not saying we are fighting a losing battle, no, I am saying that there is no networking on the West Coast with organisations who are effective in dealing with this.”
Marius Whelan from the West Coast Personal and Academic Development Centre said human trafficking isn’t confined to big cities or across borders and that it thrives in areas with poverty, unemployment, and limited resources.
“The West Coast, with its rural settlements and constrained access to resources, creates an environment where traffickers can easily target vulnerable groups. From children to adults, people are trafficked for labour, sexual exploitation, or forced begging. The Joshlin Smith case awakened us all; we realised that trafficking can hit anyone, anywhere. The harm isn’t only physical; it erodes trust within our community and leaves lasting psychological wounds.”
McKay adds that reintegration requires compassion, not just policy. “Survivors need mental health support, safe housing, skills development, and most of all, community acceptance. We must fight the stigma. As West Coast communities, we must be safe spaces for healing, not judgmental places. Let’s partner with psychologists, women’s shelters, churches, and even local businesses to create opportunities for survivors to reclaim their lives.”
Report a missing loved one to the police and the following numbers immediately:
Police Crime Stop Hotline: 08600 10111
National Human Trafficking Hotline: 0800 222 777
Department of Social Development Hotline: 0800 220 250
National Human Trafficking Hotline (24/7): 0800 222 777
Childline SA (also adults): 116
