GIYANI - All fathers have a responsibility to maintain their children irrespective of whether the kids were born in or out of wedlock. These are the words of Moses Nkadimeng from the Capricorn District.

Moses was addressing politicians, parents, academics and his fellow students at Giyani Banquet Hall on Saturday the 2nd November. The event marked the provincial celebrations of the Children's Day.

A packed hall listened to children from different districts speaking about their rights and their obligations. Also listening attentively to the kids was the MEC for Safety and Security, Dikeledi Magadzi who emphasised that while kids have the right to be listened to, they also have an obligation to listen to their parents.

The MEC warned parents against using children as sex slaves. "Sex is for adults, allow the kids to grow nicely because they are the leaders of tomorrow," She said. Magadzi also said that while the Government has an obligation to build schools and provide study material, children have an obligation to study and to take care of the school's properties. "Say no to all types of abuse" she added. The MEC also warned the children against drug abuse. She said they (children) have to respect and love their bodies.

Ronald Maepa, a kid from Sekhukhune emphasised the point that every child has the right to shelter. Maepa also appealed to teachers to stop corporal punishment.

Shirley Kgohloane from Bohlabela district gave a lesson on what abuse is. She said abuse to kids is when kids are made to do what they should not be doing. However she added that children should behave in a responsible manner.

Katekani Ngobeni from Mopani district spoke on behalf of children with disabilities. "We are here to tell the Government to build accessible routes to buildings for people who use crutches and wheelchairs" She said. Ngobeni also spoke to the parents. "We are appealing to our parents not to hide us just because we are disabled. Some parents do not even want to take us to churches because their friends will laugh at them. This is not good for us," She said.

Fiona Mkansi who said people make those who have disabilities to be beggars because when they see them they only think of donating some cents to them shared Ngobeni's sentiments. "They look at our crutches and not at us as ordinary kids," added Ignatius Mathebula.

Amongst the kids was a 9-year-old Ndzalama Matukane who had a message for the Government. "I like to thank the Government for letting us here to speak our minds. I love the Government and I wish I may hug them all" the articulate Grade 3 from Khanyisa said.

Children also received free legal education from Judge Hetisani. He said that some of the abuse cases are difficult to judge because community members are reluctant to disclose information. Children also learnt that people should report cases immediately when they happen.

In conclusion, Greater Giyani mayor, Rev S Thindani said "Every child is my child". Trophies and dolls were presented to top members in society including the Area Commissioner and the Judge. The function was concluded with a number of traditional dances.