FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Joshlin Smith Case Judgment: A Step Towards Justice, But More Needs to Be Done

Pretoria, 2 May 2025- Save the Children South Africa (SCSA) welcomes the guilty verdict in the Joshlin Smith case- a testament to the unwavering dedication of law enforcement and a beacon of hope for justice. Yet, it also lays bare the harsh reality of child abuse and exploitation that plagues our nation.

Child abuse is a heinous crime that leaves deep emotional, psychological and sometimes physical scars, often irreparable. South Africa's laws provide a framework for protection, but inconsistent implementation and enforcement leave children vulnerable. The Joshlin Smith case highlights the urgent need for collective action to safeguard our children.

With 781 recorded trafficking victims between 2018 and 2021 and 17,061 kidnappings reported in 2023/24, disproportionately affecting children, our nation is in crisis mode. We need urgent action to strengthen anti-trafficking units, improve interagency coordination, and enhance community monitoring.

As we await sentencing, we urge the court to impose a sentence that reflects the severity of the crime and serves as a deterrent to potential offenders. Every child has the right to a life free from violence, and it's our collective responsibility to ensure their protection.

SCSA calls for:

• Increased investment in child protection services and shelters.
• Increase preventative measures aimed at reducing and stopping the occurrence of child trafficking, kidnapping and abduction.
• Stronger prosecution and application of maximum sentences.
• Specialized child safeguarding training for all service providers in the children’s sector.
• Greater public awareness and national education on child rights, safety, and the risks of trafficking.
• Community-led solutions, including safe reporting mechanisms, neighbourhood watch groups, and school-based education and support systems.

“The guilty verdict in the Joshlin Smith case is a good level of justice, also showing that there is intolerance to child abuse but it's only one step in a long journey. We must continue to work tirelessly to prevent child abuse, protect the rights and needs of children, and to hold perpetrators accountable. Every child deserves a childhood free from violence and exploitation," said Gugu Xaba, CEO of Save the Children South Africa.

SCSA Africa remains committed to advocating for stronger laws, raising awareness, and supporting child survivors. We demand a future where every child is safe, protected, and free from violence. Now is the time for collective action – we must stand united, unwavering in our commitment to uphold the rights of every child.

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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