Since August 2006 rape is no longer defined only as forceful penile penetration of the vagina, but now also includes sexual penetration of the sexual organs, the anus and the mouth. As defined by the bill, "sexual penetration" includes any act which causes penetration to any extent whatsoever by-
the genital organs of one person into or beyond the genital organs, anus, or mouth of another person;
any other part of the body of one person or, any object, including any part of the body of an animal, into or beyond the genital organs or anus of another person; or
the genital organs of an animal, into or beyond the mouth of another person.
Therefore, for the first time in South Africa, if a man or woman does not consent to sex, it is considered rape. This also applies to having sex with a child, someone who was unconscious and the mentally disabled. Child here refers to anyone below the age of 12 because by law a child under the age of 12 cannot consent to sex.
