The deaths of brothers Setshaba Digoro, 10, and Botlhale Digoro, 8, have ended in a guilty plea and a 40-year prison sentence for their mother at the Lenasia Magistrate’s Court.
The boys died in May 2024 after allegedly being poisoned by their biological mother, Nonhlanhla Digoro, at their home in Phumlamqashi informal settlement, south of Johannesburg. Digoro pleaded guilty to murdering both sons and was sentenced on Friday, 16 October, to 20 years’ imprisonment for each murder, amounting to 40 years in total.
The Gauteng Department of Social Development’s Men’s Forum attended court proceedings throughout the case, standing in solidarity with the boys’ father, Simon Digoro, and reaffirming the department’s commitment to child protection and supporting families affected by violence. During sentencing, Magistrate Maggie van der Merwe highlighted the responsibility of the justice system to protect children, who are often unable to defend themselves.
“As the justice system, we should fight for the children and protect them, as they cannot fight for themselves,” van der Merwe said. The department said the tragic deaths of the brothers served as a painful reminder of the need to protect children from abuse and violence.
It also called on communities to take collective responsibility for children’s safety by reporting suspected abuse and ensuring that children grow up in safe environments. The case highlights the importance of child protection efforts and the role of families, communities and institutions in preventing violence against children.
The Department of Social Development continues to promote child protection under its #ChildProtection365Days campaign, alongside its broader commitment to supporting vulnerable children and families.
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