Nal’ibali leads a Child Protection March in Durban

Written by Suri Tsholetsane

Durban, South Africa, Thursday, 5 June 2025 – Nal’ibali, the national reading-for-enjoyment campaign, hosted an awareness march in Durban to mark the conclusion of Child Protection Week. This event served as a resounding call to action, urging communities to unite in protecting children and fostering safe environments where they can thrive.

The march, which took place on  Thursday, the 5th of June 2025, commenced at 9:00am from King Dinizulu Park and ended at Gugu Dlamini Park.

Aligning with the 2025 national theme, “Act Now, Stand Against Child Abuse and Exploitation,” the march underscored the crucial message that child protection is not a temporary concern but a continuous responsibility that must be upheld relentlessly. Sibongiseni Blose, Nal’ibali Child Protection Officer and Social Worker, emphasizes, “The protection of children cannot be confined to a specific timeframe; it is a duty we must embrace every day.”

The march was supported by the municipality, various partners and schools throughout Durban, reflecting the widespread commitment to this call.

“Children are the heart of our communities, and we have a responsibility to ensure their safety and well-being,” said Suri Tsholetsane, Communication Manager for Nal’ibali. “This march is a powerful statement that we stand united in our commitment to protecting children and creating safe spaces where they can learn and thrive.”

At the conclusion of the march, participants had the opportunity to sign a pledge, solidifying their commitment to safeguarding children in their lives and fostering nurturing environments conducive to learning and growth.

Through this powerful demonstration, Nal’ibali aims to galvanise communities, raise awareness, and foster a collective sense of responsibility towards ensuring the safety, well-being, and empowerment of children. By joining forces, individuals, organisations, and institutions can create a society where every child is cherished, protected, and allowed to reach their full potential.