Childline South Africa said on Friday introducing the "Baby Box" concept will not solve the problem of abandoned babies in the country.

The Baby Box – developed in east Europe – is placed on the side of hospitals and government buildings. 

Mothers can then place their unwanted babies inside, after which the door closes and locks automatically while an alarm is triggered to notify medical staff.

Childline’s Joan van Niekerk said dealing with the root of the problem is much wiser.

“We really do not have mother friendly facilities and services in this country for the average woman who gives birth, particularly the younger women,” she said.

(Edited by Deshnee Subramany)