Cape Town — A five-year-old girl, born and living in Mauritius, is set to be united with her family back in South Africa on Friday.
The young girl was born in a Mauritius prison after her mother was arrested for drug trafficking in the country and is now going to make her way back to South Africa via the Department of Social Development (DSD).
The mother was disappointed to see her child go but understood it was in the best interests of her child.
“It is painful to see her go, but I know it’s for the best, for her future,” said the mother.
She was also disappointed that she was placed in such a difficult position where she could not see her child grow within the foreseeable future until the case was finalised. The mother is still awaiting trial.
She also expressed her regret for placing herself in such a difficult position, where she would not be able to see her child grow within the foreseeable future while her case is being finalised. The mother is still awaiting trial since the time she was arrested in 2019.…
— Social Development (@The_DSD) December 12, 2024
When the little girl left the prison, the female South Africans incarcerated at the prison stood and formed a guard of honour to see the little girl off. Her ECD teacher was sad to see her leave.
“It is sad to see her go, but we are also happy for her and we understand that it is time to let her go so she can grow with her family and in her country,” she said.
The young girl was described as “independent and mature” beyond her age and always offered to help and assist the teachers. The delegation will touch down in South Africa tomorrow evening, where the girl will be welcomed by her excited grandmother, who said it was like an early Christmas present for the family.
“The timing of her repatriation could not be more ideal as it ensures that she will be able to join us as a family and start school without delay,” shared the grandmother.
Deputy Commissioner Aubeeluck Gunneete at the Mauritius prison emphasised that: “it is important that this repatriation process happens now, as it will allow her to reunite with her family and begin her schooling in South Africa just like any other child”. The girl is now the 25th child repatriated from another country.
Her grandmother said the return of the child is the greatest Christmas present for her and her family.
“The timing of her repatriation could not be more ideal as it ensures that she will be able to join us as a family and start school without delay,” shared the grandmother.…— Social Development (@The_DSD) December 12, 2024
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Compiled by Matthew Petersen
