World Vision Present Practical Solutions at the OVC gathering in Durban

World Vision SA’s Advocacy and External Engagements Advisor, Stanley Maphosa has urged the government to make a deliberate effort to strengthen partnerships with the NGO that have long term grass-roots presence, in order to address the many societal ills that make it impossible for children to enjoy childhood. “The contribution by government to NGO’s resource needs can only happen where there is an effective relationship between government and us – the NGOs”, he said. Adding that the community based organizations know where and what the greatest community and children’s need are. “We plead with the government to channel its resources into work of more urgent need, and we can take care of those needs which the government cannot fully pay attention to at that particular time”, said Maphosa.

World Vision is amongst the organizations presenting practical models at the South African Conference on Orphans, Children and Youth made vulnerable by HIV and Aids, which included the launch of Child Protection Week and Pledge, held at Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre in Durban. The 2013 theme of the conference is ‘Changing Children and Young People’s Lives’.
The aim of the conference is to evaluate the progress made with respect to recommendations of the 2006 conference and highlight practical models of protection, care and support in addressing the plight of orphans, vulnerable children and youth.
Delivering her keynote address, Social Development Minister Bathabile Dlamini, re-affirmed government’s commitment to continue its efforts to address the plight of children, through partnerships and effecting the relevant policies and programs.
In her message of support, first lady, Nompumelelo MaNtuli-Zuma, announced her decision to volunteer her services to work with NGOs that are attending to the needs of the most vulnerable children in the country. “As a mother myself, I can no longer sit back and not get involved in the implementation of projects that will change the lives of our children for better”, she said.

The conference will further look at the gaps and challenges that still exist and take stock of the contribution made by the National Action Plan for orphans and other children made vulnerable by HIV and Aids in addressing those gaps.