‘We need action’ CPFSA demands protection for Jamaica’s children

The Child Protection and Family Services Agency (CPFSA) has described the death of 10-year-old Shani ‘Kaja’ Coke as a painful reminder of the continued threat of violence faced by minors, warning that society must do more to protect children from abuse and harm.

The agency said too many children are still being subjected to horrific acts by adults who should be responsible for their safety, care and development. It reiterated that every child deserves to grow up in an environment where they are protected, supported and allowed to reach their full potential.

CPFSA Chief Executive Officer Laurette Adams Thomas said the organisation shares in the grief of the child’s family and community, acknowledging the devastating impact of the tragedy.

“There are simply no words that can lessen the pain of this tragedy,” Adams Thomas said, adding that the 10-year-old child should have had the chance to pursue her dreams and experience important milestones in life.

She said, instead, the child had become “another victim of unspeakable violence”, stressing that Jamaica cannot continue to treat such acts as acceptable.

The CPFSA head argued that every incident of child abuse or murder represents a failure by society to protect those most vulnerable.

Adams Thomas said the tragedy should trigger renewed national action against violence towards children, urging Jamaicans to move beyond words and take responsibility for safeguarding minors.

She called for child protection to become an immediate priority and encouraged adults to report abuse, intervene when necessary, and speak out against harmful behaviour.

“Every child is precious, every life has immeasurable value, and every adult has a responsibility to intervene, to report abuse, to speak up and to act,” she said.

Adams Thomas also cautioned against retaliatory violence, making clear that acts of mob justice are not an acceptable response.

“Jungle justice, however, is not the appropriate form of intervention and is not supported by the CPFSA,” she said.

The agency maintained that protecting children requires collective action from families, communities and institutions, with adults taking an active role in creating safer spaces for Jamaica’s children.