Devastating Reality: Another Child's Life allegedly lost to Maternal Violence

Pretoria, 15 July 2025- Save the Children South Africa (SCSA) was devastated when the news of Jayden-Lee Meek's death first broke, our hearts were shattered by the loss of a bright and promising 11-year-old life. The thought of such a young boy being brutally taken from his family, friends and community was deeply destressing. Now, with the recent arrest of his mother in connection with his death, we are left grappling with a new wave of horror and grief. The revelation that a parent, someone who should have protected and nurtured him, is implicated in his death is a painful reminder of the darkest attitudes and views of our society.

In South Africa, the statistics are alarming:

• In the 2022–2023 period, SAPS recorded 1 194 child murders.
• Approximately, three children are killed daily, with nearly half of child homicides (45%) linked directly to abuse.
• In the first quarter of 2024, child murders increased by 7.2% compared to the same period of the previous year.

SCSA is deeply concerned about the underlying issues that lead to such heinous crimes. Maternal filicide, though rare, is a devastating reality that highlights the complex interplay of mental health issues, socio-economic pressures, tumultuous relationships, and substance abuse. As we demand justice for Jayden-Lee, we cannot ignore these factors. These underlying issues can create the perfect storm that puts vulnerable children at risk.

Save the Children South Africa urges the authorities to conduct a thorough investigation and ensure that justice is served. But beyond that, we need to acknowledge the child protection systemic failures that allow such tragedies to occur.

"We are heartbroken by Jayden-Lee's death and the countless children who suffer at the hands of those who are supposed to protect them," expressed Gugu Xaba, CEO of Save the Children South Africa. "It's time for us to come together as a society to demand better support systems for families and parents, improved mental health services, and a culture that prioritizes child safety above all else."

We owe it to Jayden-Lee and all the children who have lost their lives to maternal violence to:

• Ensure people responsible with the care of children, such as teachers, healthcare workers, ECD Practitioners, guardians, and law enforcement officials, fulfil their mandatory reporting obligations as stipulated in the Children’s Act accountable for non-action.
• Strengthen child protection services, including following up all reports of suspected abuse, neglect or exploitation, ensuring that no child is left behind.
• Increase the resourcing of prevention programmes including child safeguarding awareness campaigns, parenting skills, and psychosocial support.
• Provide accessible and stigma-free mental health support for parents and caregivers.
• Foster a culture of zero tolerance toward violence against children in all spaces.

Save the Children South Africa urges communities, parents, and the authorities to join forces in demanding urgent change- the time for action is now. Join us in advocating for a society where children can grow, thrive, and reach their full potential without fear of harm. Together, we can make a difference and create a brighter future for our children.

ENDS

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About Save the Children South Africa 

Save the Children believes every child deserves a future. In South Africa and around the world, we work every day to give children a healthy start in life, the opportunity to learn and protection from harm. When crisis strikes, and children are most vulnerable, we are always among the first to respond and the last to leave. We ensure children’s unique needs are met and their voices are heard. We deliver lasting results for millions of children, including those hardest to reach.

We do whatever it takes for children – every day and in times of crisis – transforming their lives and the future we share.

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Banele Senatla

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