​The Gauteng Department of Social Development hosted an International Day of Families event in Johannesburg under the theme “Families and Urbanization”. 
The aim of this theme is to raise awareness on problems faced by families in increasing urbanisation of societies. The day also is to remind people to appreciate the role of families in society.

Speaking at event Social Worker, Zandile Gamede, said families play a critical role in nurturing and caring for everyone in the society including children, marginalized individuals, the youth, LGBTQIA+ and older persons.

Gamede added that when taking care of foster children, they should not be boxed because they do not have parents. “As foster caregivers, we should not put a status on children as they are adopted, because we have legally taken the responsibility to ensure they are well taken care of and loved.”

She said developing years of a child are spent growing at home, were important values and beliefs are shared and internalized. This is a space where they are prepared in order to operate in a more democratic society.
In a family setting they learn to be tolerant and respectful towards others and honor the human rights of all people.

Founder of Bophelo Phedusano from Families of South Africa in Ivory Park, Kolobe Linah Mushi, explained that urbanization affects families in multiple ways, hence we should always be reminded that it is important to rely on support systems within the family, extended families, and communities in order to be resilient and function optimally.

The United Nations declared  the 15th of May International Day of Families.