Presidency to respond to Baby Savers South Africa's grievances

The Presidency has committed to responding to the grievances raised by the non-profit organisation, Baby Savers South Africa, within the next 7 to 14 days.

The NGO is protesting the Department of Social Development’s proposed amendments to the Children’s Act, which it argues would effectively criminalise the operations of organisations like Baby Savers.

Activists gathered at the Union Buildings in Tshwane on Friday to protest these proposed changes. The Office of the Presidency received its memorandum and stated that an acknowledgment letter will be handed over to the organisation within two weeks.

Baby Savers South Africa highlights grim statistics, stating that two out of three abandoned babies are found dead. The organisation believes the immediate impact of the proposed amendment, if passed, will be an increase in infant mortality rates.

The NGO has pleaded with the Presidency to consider the severity of the matter should the amendment pass.

Co-founder Whitney Rosenberg expressed the organisation's hope:

“We are hoping that the President will intervene in this matter, will establish a review committee that will look into safe surrender laws and how it can better serve our country.”

Shonisani Mudau, a representative from the Office of the Presidency, received the memorandum, confirming that Baby Savers South Africa will receive a written response from the President within the next 7 to 14 days.