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The Minister of Social Development, Dr. Zola Skweyiya, has expressed shock and sadness at the death of two children who drowned during the National Children's Day at Zoo Lake, Johannesburg. He has added his voice for a full probe into the circumstances that led to this tragedy.

"I am indeed saddened that this tragedy took place and would like to express my sincere condolences to the affected families. It is even more tragic that it happened when the nation celebrated the children of our country and at a time when we are fighting relentlessly to ensure that the socio-economic rights of children as enshrined in the Constitution are realised."

The Minister also said that the increasing number of rape cases, especially the raping of children is a matter a of serious concern that requires the nation as a whole to double its efforts and work together to fight and eliminate this scourge.

"We owe to our children and the future to eliminate the scourge of rape and other forms of violence and abuse of women and children in our society," he said.

The Minister said that the government and civil society are preparing for the 16 days of Activism Against Violence on Women and Children starting with the Men's March that will take in Cape Town from 25 November and culminating with the commemoration of International Human Rights Day on 10 December 2001.

Enquiries: Mbulelo Musi at 083 602 5795

Issued by: Ministry of Social Development, 5 November 2001