On 12–13 November 2025, we brought together civil society, government, and communities to advance child protection and care reform in South Africa.
About the Summit
The System Has Failed. It’s Time for Change.
Child well-being in South Africa had stagnated, and existing care models frequently disregarded African cultural values. The 2025 Summit built on 2024’s provincial dialogues to achieve a national commitment from the Department of Social Development to child-centred, community-based care.
Care Reform Summit Concept Note
Objectives of the 2025 Care Reform Summit:
- Secure DSD commitment for deinstitutionalised, community-based care.
- Highlight system failures through national data and experience.
- Reclaim African values of care, interdependence, and extended families.
- Showcase community-level solutions and civil society strength.
- Build a unified voice for long-term reform and accountability.
Why Now?
At the previous C20 event, African voices reminded us: “Africa has no orphans. Africa has no poverty.”
The Summit aligns with this vision, promoting community-led, culturally relevant care while challenging outdated global models.
Who Should Attend Care Reform Summit?
- Government leaders & policymakers
- NGOs & NPOs in child protection
- Child & youth advocates
- Researchers & academics
- Traditional leaders & community stakeholders
Get Involved
Your voice matters. Together, we can transform how South Africa cares for its children.
Contact: [email protected] | 076 174 3789
