Mortimer Saunders, who is accused of killing and raping 3-year-old Courtney Pieters, appeared calm and subdued as he made his way into the dock.
He is set to learn his fate today.
The gallery in Court 2 was packed as family members and community leaders eagerly awaited the judgement set to be handed down by Judge Babalwa Mantame.
Saunders pleaded guilty on a charge of murder but not guilty on a charge pre-meditated murder, and not guilty on a charge of rape.
He also pleaded guilty to performing a sexual act on a corpse.
Judge Babalwa Mantame read Saunders' plea explanation as he just stared blankly ahead at the judge.
Judge Mantame's lengthy judgement and sentencing is set for 3 days this week.
Courtney went missing in May last year and her body was found dumped in Bofors Circle, Epping Industria, nine days later ending an extensive search by police and volunteers from across the Cape Flats.
Daily Voice