Holding out hope: Why some people believe Joshlin Smith is still alive

Lester Kiewit is joined by Greg Clifton, founder of charity organisation PayItForward.

Listen below:

It is a tragic case that has gripped the nation - the disappearance last February of six-year-old Joshlin Smith.

Joshlin went missing from her Middelpos home in Saldanha Bay on the 19 February.

Her mother, Kelly Smith, is one of those who stands accused of kidnapping and human trafficking.

The state says Smith had planned to sell Joshlin, as well as her two other children. 

Despite an ongoing search, authorities have yet to locate Joshlin.

But some are holding out hope that the little girl is still alive.

One of them is Greg Clifton who has been engaging with the community of Saldanha Bay, as well as the accused in the case.

ALSO READ: Pre-trial hearing related to Joshlin Smith disappearance set to proceed in court

"There's no evidence, no indication of her NOT being alive."

- Greg Clifton, Founder - PayItForward

"Until we have something concrete, I will continue to believe that she is alive due to the  circumstances as to how this is thought to have played out."

- Greg Clifton, Founder - PayItForward

Clifton says there is evidence to suggest Joshlin's disappearance was planned way in advance.

He says Kelly Smith admits speaking to somebody in the area in August 2023 about what was to happen.

"[She said] watch in January or February of 2024 what is going to happen. I'm going to turn Saldana Bay upside down. She said, no horse, no policeman, no dog is going to find my child, they will all look, but nobody will find her."

- Greg Clifton, Founder - PayItForward

Smith appeared in the Western Cape High Court for a pre-trial hearing on Friday.

The State confirmed the case will be transferred to a venue in Saldanha Bay to give the community easier access to the trial.

ALSO READ: Saldanha Bay community believes Joshlin Smith is held captive in the area

Scroll up to the audio player to listen to the interview.