Food or transport to medical care: the impossible choice many South Africans face
Millions of South Africans can't afford transport costs, which makes it difficult for them to access healthcare, even though services are provided for free.
Millions of South Africans can't afford transport costs, which makes it difficult for them to access healthcare, even though services are provided for free.
A lack of trained police officers and health workers, and inadequately equipped courts often obstruct justice for children who’ve been sexually assaulted, leaving parents feeling guilty and powerless.
More than 28 million people receive social grants.
When children are continuously exposed to violence, it can create a subculture of violence that influences not just their school life but their behaviour in the broader community.
Extended schooling could result in burnout and fatigue among pupils, which could lead to mental illness.
The crisis, fuelled by ageing infrastructure, population growth, and mismanagement, poses severe health risks, including waterborne diseases.
High crime rates in cities often keep children indoors, leading to sedentary behaviours like playing video games and snacking on unhealthy, ultra-processed foods.
Sexual acts involving children under 12 are automatically considered statutory rape, as children below this age cannot legally consent.
In October 2023, four young children in Soweto fell ill after buying snacks from a local spaza shop, leading to the tragic deaths of Neo Kgang and Leon Jele. Despite a year passing, families have not received conclusive post-mortem results.
Six children in Naledi, Soweto, died after consuming snacks believed to be tainted with Terbufos, a toxic pesticide, leaving families devastated and with unanswered questions.
Starting school at an early age can play a crucial role in protecting children from a range of adversities including abuse, childhood illnesses, malnutrition, and neglect.
Indoor fireplace use often exceeds WHO guidelines for air quality, leading to adverse health effects such as aggravated asthma, bronchitis, and potentially early deaths.
Many people, especially men, move frequently for work. Seasonal and part-time workers often prioritise employment over health services and may not seek necessary transfer letters for continued treatment in new locations.
Many people who cannot afford to buy drinking water rely solely on water provided by the trucks. But there have been concerns from residents on how safe it is to drink the water from these trucks.
Pupils in Gauteng returned to school this week to find no lunch being served, as the National School Nutrition Programme tender bid is delayed due to a contested bid.