21 May Justice for Cwecwe: A Nation Rises for a Child

The alleged assault of a 7-year-old girl ignites a powerful movement for change in South Africa.

A Heartbreaking Incident Sparks National Outcry

In October 2024, a 7-year-old girl, affectionately known as Cwecwe, was allegedly assaulted on the premises of Bergview College in Matatiele, Eastern Cape. The incident came to light after her mother, Thandekile Mtshizana, noticed troubling signs and sought medical attention for her daughter. A medical examination confirmed the assault.

The school’s response-or—or lack thereof—fueled public anger. Instead of taking immediate action, the school reportedly offered the family a transfer letter, which they had not requested.

A Movement Gains Momentum

The hashtag #JusticeForCwecwe quickly gained traction on social media, leading to nationwide protests. Demonstrators, dressed in black, marched in cities like Pretoria, Cape Town, and Matatiele, demanding justice for Cwecwe and calling for systemic changes to protect children from sexual violence.

Government and Institutional Responses

Under mounting pressure, the Eastern Cape Department of Education deregistered Bergview College, citing its failure to provide a safe environment for students and lack of cooperation with authorities . Police Minister Senzo Mchunu acknowledged delays in the investigation and pledged to expedite the process.

A Mother’s Unyielding Pursuit of Justice

Thandekile Mtshizana, a police officer and now a prominent activist, has become the face of the movement. Her relentless advocacy has inspired many across the nation to demand accountability and reforms to ensure the safety of children in educational institutions.

A Call to Action

The #JusticeForCwecwe movement underscores the urgent need for:

• Dedicated sexual offence courts for child-related cases
• Fast-tracking the prosecution of sexual assault cases involving children
• Strengthening evidence collection processes
• Imposing harsher sentences on perpetrators 

As a nation, we must stand united to protect our children and ensure that justice is not just a concept but a reality for all.

If you or someone you know is affected by sexual violence, please reach out to Childline South Africa at 116 for support and assistance.

“Justice for Cwecwe” is an important cause for Chomee Online—and especially for our young audience—because it speaks to the heart of what we stand for: safety, justice, and a future where all children and young people can thrive without fear.

Here’s why this matters deeply to us and our readers:

1. Because Cwecwe Could’ve Been Any of U

Cwecwe was only 7 years old when she was allegedly assaulted in a place meant to protect and educate her. For young people across South Africa, this isn’t just one story—it’s a painful reminder of how often children, especially girls, are let down by the systems meant to keep them safe. Speaking out means standing up for ourselves, our siblings, and our communities.

2. Because Silence is a Form of Violence

When schools, the police, or society remain silent or fail to act, the message is clear: children’s pain doesn’t matter. That’s unacceptable. As a youth platform, Chomee Online exists to amplify voices that are often silenced. Joining the call for justice is about refusing to accept apathy.

3. Because Change Starts With Awareness—and Us

Our generation is bold, informed, and ready to challenge broken systems. Getting behind #JusticeForCwecwe is a way to demand safer schools, better investigations, and real consequences for abuse. Sharing stories like Cwecwe’s educates, inspires, and empowers others to take action.

4. Because What We Accept Today Shapes Tomorrow

If we don’t fight for justice today, we normalise injustice tomorrow. Cwecwe’s case shows how urgent it is to push for policies that actually work—from specialised courts to proper support for survivors. We have the power to shape a future that prioritises children’s lives over institutional reputation.

5. Because Solidarity is Strength

Movements like #JusticeForCwecwe prove what happens when people unite. As a publication, Chomee Online doesn’t just report on youth voices—we reflect them. Backing this cause means we stand with every young person who’s ever been hurt, unheard, or ignored.

Justice for Cwecwe is about protecting children. It’s about believing survivors. And it’s about refusing to look away. That’s why we care—and why you should too.