THE Childcare and Protection Agency (CPA) receive reports about sexually abused children, via their hotline number, (227 0979) or their Intake desk every day. In various parts of Guyana, (Reg. 1,2,3,5,6,7,8,9,10) reports on child sexual abuse or molestation are also regularly made at CPA offices.

Each report is followed up and investigated by CPA officers. This adds up to a lot of child sexual abuse for such a small population. (623) cases were reported, from January to September 2020, but as you may imagine, this is a drop in the ocean to the unreported cases that possibly took place. It is not surprising to learn, therefore, that Guyana has the highest rate of child sexual abuse in the Region.

Neglect, physical abuse, abandonment and custody matters are also recorded daily; but child sexual abuse is the most heinous of these violations against children. If you are a parent, you have to protect your children. You must not put them at risk of abuse or turn a blind eye while a family member molests your child.
It seems impossible to imagine, but some adults have a high tolerance for under-age sexual activity in their everyday lives. Pubescent daughters (aged 10 to 14) are sometimes encouraged by their mothers to partake in sexual activity, with (young) men, as if it were a rite of passage. No doubt, the mother endured a similar fate when she was growing up, and so the trend continues.
In their hearts, adults know that child sexual abuse is an offence; that is why they keep it quiet. They could be prosecuted and imprisoned for enabling and partaking in statutory rape, if caught. It is against the law for adults to have sexual activities with minors, yet every year an increasing number of 12 -13-year-old girls are becoming pregnant and having children.
This behaviour may be a social norm for some adults, but it is far from normal for the children involved. They are coaxed into a life of sexual experiences, for which their minds and bodies are not yet ready. What do children want with sex? Children want to have fun. They need love, affection, security and direction from the adults who care for them. They need time and space to grow and find themselves.
The Protection of Children Act (2009) and the Sexual Offences Act (2010) contain legislations to prevent child sexual abuse and other violations against children (and others). These laws are for the whole of Guyana and need to be upheld. Those who violate children, especially sexual predators, should be prosecuted and imprisoned.
In Guyana, a speedy turnaround is required for the smooth running of such an operation, once child sexual abuse is reported. A special task force with specific skills from relevant entities. (CPA, Police, Medical Practitioner, Counsellor) should spring into action.
A professional should forensically interview the victim as early as possible, and the perpetrator locked up immediately until a case is investigated and made against him/her. Authorities should not grant a 72-hour reprieve to the culprit if some information is lacking or challenging to obtain. The child’s best interest will be paramount.
The CPA is very concerned about child sexual abuse and its aftermath. They endeavour to work towards innovative ideas to assist the smooth running of operations, the outcome of which should help prevent child sexual abuse and deter offenders from performing their wanton desires on children.
The definition of a Paedophile is someone who has a sexual interest in children, and Paedophilia is recognised as a mental disorder. Yet, there are paedophiles among us who go about their ‘normal’ everyday lives with little indication of their warped intention towards children.
While we are gaffing, talking, laughing and spending time with them, we never suspect they have a nasty dark side to their mind, where they relish sexual activity with children. But what about the children? Doesn’t anyone care how they are affected by early sexual exposure? The answer is no; those who partake do not care about children. It is all about adult gratification.
Unless a child speaks out or the perpetrator is caught and imprisoned, this gross conduct will continue, and children will suffer.
What does a child know about the mental, psychological and emotional drama that accompanies sexual activity? Children lack the maturity to make constructive choices for their well-being. They do not understand the damage that can result from early sexual activity.
Even if and when a child appears to be compliant, the odds are stacked against him/her. Yes, their bodies will respond when sexually aroused, but this does not mean their minds are sexually wired or functioning like that of an adult (or a willing complicit equal). They are naïve and can be easily controlled and deceived by adults who use them to meet their evil ends.
Children are resilient; they can withstand a lot of pressure, inadequate treatment, or abuse from adults and still show love and loyalty towards them. Many abused children have bounced back from abuse (with the right support and opportunities from others) to become productive members of society. But the scars of a messed-up childhood remain.
To combat this blight in our society, we must re-educate people about the laws of Guyana and change the way some people treat and perceive children. The essential consideration that an adult can give a child should be in the child’s best interest and early sexual exposure can never be in the best interest of the child, but only to their detriment.
If you are concerned about the welfare of a child, call the CPA hotline on 227 0979 or write to us at childcaregy@gmail.com

A MESSAGE FROM THE CHILDCARE AND PROTECTION AGENCY, MINISTRY OF HUMAN SERVICES AND SOCIAL SECURITY