By Kimone Witter
The Child Protection and Family Services Agency (CPFSA) has expressed profound sorrow following the deaths of two young children in separate incidents this week.
Five-year-old Rakeema Williams of Rocky Point, Clarendon, and 10-week-old Mateo Forbes of Top Hill, Manchester lost their lives under tragic circumstances.
Laurette Adams-Thomas, Chief Executive Officer of the CPFSA, says while the details of each case differ, both incidents underscore the urgent need for vigilance and support in protecting the nation’s children.
It was reported that Rakeema, a student of Galilee Basic School, was suspected to have drowned in a manhole located at the rear of the premises where her family was temporarily residing in Rocky Point on Sunday, March 1.
The CPFSA has disclosed that the family recently relocated to the rented property while renovations were being carried out at the family home, also in Rocky Point.
Mrs. Adams-Thomas urged parents and guardians to exercise heightened vigilance to the hazards that can exist at their homes.
“There are no words that can adequately capture the heartbreak of losing a child in such sudden and tragic circumstances. You know, Rackeema’s death is a painful reminder that hazards can exist in and around our homes, especially when families are in transition or unfamiliar environments,” she pointed out.
The CPFSA head added that the death of baby Mateo Forbes is a stark reminder of the critical link between parental wellbeing and child safety.
She noted that the ten-week-old infant lost his life under circumstances in which his mother, who reportedly has a history of mental health challenges, allegedly drowned him.
The young mother is continuing to receive treatment at hospital.
Mrs. Adams-Thomas said the death of the baby demands national reflection.
She also appealed for mothers, particularly those who have recently given birth, to prioritise their mental health and remain actively engaged in care.
“A newborn should be surrounded by care and protection. Instead, we are confronted with the painful reality that poorly managed mental health challenges can place both the parent and the child at grave risk. Postpartum depression and other psychiatric conditions can intensify after childbirth. We are appealing to mothers to attend follow-up appointments, continue prescribed treatments, and immediately seek help if they feel overwhelmed or distressed or unstable. There is a trend in seeking support, and early intervention can prevent devastating outcomes,” she advised.