The number of orphans and vulnerable children has increased with the global financial downturn, Social Development Minister Edna Molewa said on Monday.

"Currently the number of children who have become orphans and vulnerable is estimated to be 1.5 million, with the largest number in KwaZulu-Natal, Eastern Cape and Gauteng provinces.

"This number is expected to reach two million by 2010," Molewa told journalists at the National Press Club in Pretoria.

She said the decrease in the number of traditional caregivers and breadwinners had resulted in increased poverty and lack of proper care for children.

"When a parent becomes sick and dies, it affects every aspect of the child — emotionally, physical security, mental development and overall health."

Molewa said government preferred adoptions because it provided stability, a long term family relationship and gave a child a sense of belonging.

"We view adoption as one of the best options to address the plight of orphans and vulnerable children".

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