Government: Early childhood development is a priority
Gauteng's Department of Social Development has reacted to an incident in Bramley, in Johannesburg, where a toddler drowned in a swimming pool at an illegal crèche.
According to the Department's Mbangwa Xaba the crèche in Bramley was shut down after the almost two year old drowned in a pool filled with rubbish, rocks and bricks.
The child's parents blamed caregivers of negligence while the owner of the facility has admitted that she does not have the necessary permits to operate the facility.
Officials said the swimming pool was not the only hazard at the crèche.
"There is a jacuzzi in the house that is not covered, furniture and items lying around the yard as well as a dog," Xaba said.
The department has identified that there is a need for proper centers. It says the Apartheid government did not cater for early childhood development centres in townships.
"The Gauteng government has now prioritised early childhood development," Xaba told Jacaranda FM news.
He added that they are working with non-governmental organisations to assist in spreading the message of proper compliance.
"The premier called a summit on this issue, hosted by the department of basic education to ensure that we have one approach to this issue," he added.
Xaba said that every centre should be set up - in line with the guidelines and should be properly registered as a care facility.
"We urge all those who are running an illegal crèche to come forward and register with us so that we can help you to get the necessary paperwork. We are interested in helping you to run an affordable and properly registered centre," Xaba concluded.