Demand justice for Unecebo

Three-year-old Unecebo Mboteni died after falling into a pit toilet at his pre-school in South Africa. One year on, and his family still has no answers. Demand that the investigation into Unecebo’s death be expedited, the outcome made public and those responsible are held accountable.

What’s the problem?

No parent should have to bury their child because the government ignored their basic right to safety. In April 2024, three-year-old Unecebo died after falling into a pit toilet at his pre-school in South Africa.

This tragedy could have been prevented. Since 2018, two other children have died after falling into pit toilets in the Eastern Cape. And yet, the loss of these young lives hasn’t been enough to ensure the eradication of all pit toilets in schools, including day care centres.

In South Africa, a child’s education – and safety – still depends on where they’re born, their wealth, and the colour of their skin. As Unecebo’s father said, “My son died in a death trap set up for poor people.”

One year on, and the family has received no communication from the pre-school or Department of Basic Education about whether the pit toilet that little Unecebo fell into has even been removed, let alone the progress of the investigation into his death. This lack of information is both painful and alarming. If the toilet is still in use, it puts other children’s lives at risk. Instead of answers about how this tragic incident happened, Unecebo’s family have been met with silence – exposes the authorities’ refusal to account for their failure to protect his right to life.

Unecebo lost his life in a place where he should have been safe. His family deserve answers.

What can you do to help?

Sign the Petition and demand justice for Unecebo Mboteni. Demand that the investigation into Unecebo’s death be expedited, the outcome made public and that those responsible are held accountable.