ZEPHANY NURSE: Department welcomes court ruling

The Western Cape Minister of Social Development, Adv. Albert Fritz, has welcomed the guilty verdict handed down to the woman who had been accused of kidnapping 18 year-old Zephany Nurse, at birth.

The woman was found guilty of kidnapping, fraud and contravening the Children’s Act no. 38 of 2005.

This outcome sends a strong message to society. No matter how long it takes, justice always prevails. We can only hope that today’s verdict will begin to bring closure to all affected parties, and begin the process of healing.

Children, like all citizens of this country, are protected by the Constitution and the rule-of-law. Judge Hlophe’s judgement reaffirms our commitment as the Department of Social Development (DSD) to protecting the rights of all our children, and acting in the best interest of children. We have adopted a zero-tolerance approach to the abandonment, abuse, neglect, or any action which is not in the interests of children.

As a department we will continue to render ongoing support to Zephany, and our social workers will continue to offer counselling and therapy.

As this matter draws to a conclusion in the courts, and as an aside, we must not lose sight of the real need to improve the system through which legal adoptions occur, especially for families who aren’t wealthy, but are capable and willing to adopt children looking for a home. DSD will be looking into the entire system, with the view of improving access for families.