South Africa’s Shifting Family Dynamics: Over 45% of Children Live With Only Their Mothers

South Africa’s Shifting Family Dynamics: Over 45% of Children Live With Only Their Mothers. Image for illustration purposes only, generated with AI.

Recent data from Statistics South Africa reveals that only 31% of children in the country live with both parents, while 45% reside solely with their mothers. The findings, drawn from the latest General Household Survey, highlight growing concerns about child protection and well-being in diverse family structures.

Key Statistics and Concerns

• 31% of South African children live with both biological parents.

• 45% live with only their mothers.

• Over 60% do not live with their biological fathers.

Gloria Khoza, Child Protection Officer at UNICEF South Africa, emphasized that these trends are not improving, requiring urgent intervention. “Children are growing up in varied family structures, and what matters is ensuring that caregivers—whether parents, grandparents, or other relatives—are equipped to protect and nurture them,” she said.

Impact on Child Well-Being

Khoza noted that orphaned and vulnerable children face heightened risks, including poverty, school dropout, and mental health struggles. Provinces like the Free State (15% orphanhood rate) and North West (14.9%) are particularly affected.

Single-parent households, especially those led by mothers, often struggle with economic and emotional strain, increasing children’s vulnerability to neglect and abuse. “Women shoulder most of the care burden, which can lead to heightened stress and potential violence in homes,” Khoza explained.

Calls for Policy and Community Action

To address these challenges, Khoza stressed the need for:

• Stronger coordination between health, education, and social services.

• Expanded parenting programs to support caregivers.

• Engagement with men and boys to promote shared responsibility in child-rearing.

• Community-based interventions, such as government-funded drop-in centers providing meals, psychosocial support, and safety for vulnerable children.

Tackling Gender Norms and Violence

With South Africa grappling with high rates of gender-based violence (GBV), Khoza highlighted the importance of shifting social norms. “We must encourage active fatherhood and equitable caregiving to reduce intimate partner violence and improve family dynamics,” she said.

As the country confronts these complex family trends, experts urge a multi-sectoral approach to safeguard children’s futures.

For more updates, follow UNICEF South Africa’s initiatives on child protection and welfare.

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