Community Rallies to Support Abandoned Kids as Local Authorities Cite Lack of Documentation
FICKSBURG – A heart-wrenching scene is unfolding in Ficksburg, where four young children from Lesotho have been left to fend for themselves after their mother’s arrest. The mother, who has been living in South Africa without proper documentation, was taken into custody yesterday for not having a valid ID.
This is not the first time the mother has been arrested. She was previously deported back to Lesotho, but it is unclear how she managed to return to South Africa.
The court case was postponed to January 2025, leaving the children, who range in age and schooling, without a caregiver. A Good Samaritan, Mrs. Masabata, has taken the children under her wing, despite not being employed and already caring for her own children and her siblings’ children.
The community of Ficksburg is being called upon to support the abandoned children. Local authorities, however, have stated that their hands are tied due to the family’s lack of documentation.
“We sympathize with the children’s plight, but unfortunately, our laws dictate that we cannot provide assistance without proper documentation,” said Councillor Tamae. “The father is apparently working, but it’s not enough. We urge the community to come together and support these innocent children.
“The Ficksburg community is rallying around the children, providing food, clothing, and emotional support. To further support the children, donations can be sent to Sis Mookho at 063 422 0390.As the community comes together to support these vulnerable children, one thing is clear: their fate should not be determined by their documentation status, but by the compassion and kindness of those around them.
