ASSESSMENT OF THE CONTRIBUTION OF THE COMMUNITY IN CURBING THE

ESCALATION OF STREET CHILDREN

A CASE OF KIGAMBONI WARD IN DAR ES SALAAM, TANZANIA

BY

NORA ANTAPA BAIS

MNMA/BD/MSD/10410/21

SUPERVISOR

DR. NKWERA, J.C

“A Research Dissertation Submitted in Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for The Award
OF the Bachelor Degree in Social Development in The Department of Social Studies of the
Mwalimu Nyerere Memorial Academy”

2024

i
 CERTIFICATION STATEMENT

The undersigned certifies that I have read the entire work and hereby recommend for the

acceptance by the Mwalimu Nyerere Memorial Academy, a Dissertation titled “assessment of

the contribution of the community in curbing the escalation of street children” in partial

fulfillment of the requirement for the Award of Bachelor Degree in the Department of Social

Studies.

i
 DECLARATION STATEMENT AND COPYRIGHT STATEMENT

I NORA ANTAPA BAIS do here declare that this Research Proposal is the work of my own and

that to the best of my knowledge it has never been submitted for similar course or equivalent in

any University.

………………………………….

Signature

………………………………….

Date

ii
 DEDICATION

I dedicate this piece of work firstly to God, the Almighty, secondly to my father and mother and

thirdly to my bloody brothers and sisters who have been my inspiration.

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 ABBREVIATIONS AND ACRONYMS

MNMA…………………………………………Mwalimu Nyerere Memorial Academy

NGOs…………………………………………..Non-government Organizations

UNICEF………………………………………..United Nations Children’s Fund

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 ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

The research proposal "Assessment of the Contribution of the Community in Curbing the

Escalation of Street Children: A Case of Kigamboni Ward in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania" aims to

investigate the role of the community in addressing the increasing number of street children in

the Kigamboni Ward of Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.

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 ABSTRACT

The study aimed at assessing the contribution of community in curbing the escalation of street

Children in Kigamboni ward. The specific objectives were to identify the factors contributing to

the increase in the number of street children in Kigamboni Ward, to evaluate existing

community-based initiatives and interventions aimed at addressing the issue of street children, to

assess the effectiveness of community engagement and support programs in mitigating the

escalation of street children, and to recommend sustainable strategies and interventions for the

community to actively participate in curbing the escalation of street children. The study

employed a case study design through the use of primary data obtained through questionnaires

and interviews from 188 respondents including street children, parents, government officers and

social and community workers from NGOs and relief organisations. However, to some points,

secondary data were used in data analysis. The main findings of the study show that, there is

poor family integration in the country leading to rising trend of street children in urban areas

especially Dar es salaam city. The efforts to reintegrate children back to their families have been

constrained by limited budget allocation from the central government to municipal councils who

face the problem directly; lack of cooperation among the stakeholders; and poverty among

families failing them to take care of their children when are reintegrated back to their families.

The study recommends for a joint effort from multiple stakeholders including the government,

NGOs, media and the community to join hands in making improvements of parental care;

increase awareness campaigns to both parents and children; increase counseling centers for street

children; economic empowerment to communities; facilitating dialogue among key players

including the government, NGOs, and international bodies to build a multidisciplinary network.

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 TABLE OF CONTENTS

Table of Contents

Certification statement ..................................................................................................................... i

Declaration statement and copyright statement .............................................................................. ii

Dedication ...................................................................................................................................... iii

Abbreviations and Acronyms ........................................................................................................ iv

Acknowledgements ......................................................................................................................... v

Abstract .......................................................................................................................................... vi

Table of contents ........................................................................................................................... vii

List of tables................................................................................................................................... xi

List of figures ................................................................................................................................ xii

CHAPTER ONE ............................................................................................................................. 1

INTRODUCTION .......................................................................................................................... 1

1.1 Background to the study ........................................................................................................... 1

1.2 Statement of the problem .......................................................................................................... 2

1.3 Objectives of the study.............................................................................................................. 2

1.3.1 Main objective ....................................................................................................................... 3

1.3.2 Specific objectives ................................................................................................................. 3

1.3.3 Research Hypotheses and/or Research questions .................................................................. 3

1.4 Significance of the study ........................................................................................................... 4

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1.5 Definition and operationalization of key concepts ................................................................... 4

CHAPTER TWO ............................................................................................................................ 5

LITERATURE REVIEW AND GUIDING MODEL .................................................................... 5

2.0 Introduction ............................................................................................................................... 5

2.1 Survey of previous empirical studies ........................................................................................ 5

2.2 Theoretical framework .............................................................................................................. 7

2.2.1 Social Ecology Theory ........................................................................................................... 7

2.2.2 Social Capita Theory.............................................................................................................. 7

2.2.3 Human Rights-Based Approach ............................................................................................ 7

2.2.4 Community Development theory ........................................................................................... 8

2.3 Research gap and mission (main objective) of the study .......................................................... 8

2.4 The Conceptual Framework ...................................................................................................... 8

2.4.1 Community Engagement and Participation ........................................................................... 8

2.4.2 Socioeconomic Factors .......................................................................................................... 9

2.4.3 Policy and Governance .......................................................................................................... 9

2.4.4 Child Well-being and Rights ................................................................................................. 9

CHAPTER THREE ...................................................................................................................... 10

RESEARCH METHODOLOGY.................................................................................................. 10

3.1 Research study approach......................................................................................................... 10

3.2 Study design ............................................................................................................................ 10

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3.3 Study Area .............................................................................................................................. 10

3.4 Study population ..................................................................................................................... 10

3.5 Sample size and sampling procedure ...................................................................................... 10

3.6 Methods and techniques and tools for data collection ............................................................ 11

3.7 Issues of data analysis ............................................................................................................. 11

3.8 Scope of the study ................................................................................................................... 11

3.9 Limitations .............................................................................................................................. 11

3.10 Ethical considerations ........................................................................................................... 13

CHAPTER FOUR ......................................................................................................................... 14

DATA ANALYSIS, PRESENTATION, INTERPRETATION AND DISCUSSION OF

FINDINGS .................................................................................................................................... 14

4.0 Introduction ............................................................................................................................. 14

4.1 Demographic Characteristics of Respondents ........................................................................ 15

4.2 Children Response .................................................................................................................. 18

4.3 Response from Parents............................................................................................................ 19

4.4 Response from NGOs, and WEO ........................................................................................... 21

Sources of Street Children in Dar es Salaam ................................................................................ 21

CHAPTER FIVE .......................................................................................................................... 23

SUMMARY, CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS................................................. 23

5.0 Introduction ............................................................................................................................. 23

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5.1 Summary ................................................................................................................................. 23

5.2 Conclusions ............................................................................................................................. 24

5.3 Recommendations ................................................................................................................... 25

REFERENCES ............................................................................................................................. 26

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 LIST OF TABLES

Table 1: Respondents’ Distribution…………………………………………………….15

Table 2: Demographic Characteristics for Adults……………………………….…......16

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 LIST OF FIGURES

Figure 1: Level of Family Integration for Street Children……………………………………...18

Figure 2: Status of Street Children in Recent Five Years………………………………….…...20

Figure 3: The trend of Street Children in Tanzania……………………………….……….……21

Figure 4: Sources of Street Children………………………..…………………………………...22

xii
 CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background to the study

Dar es Salaam, the largest city and economic hub of Tanzania, has been experiencing an

escalation in the number of street children, posing social, economic, and developmental

challenges. The phenomenon of street children is complex and multifaceted, influenced by

various social, economic, and environmental factors. As such, understanding the root causes of

the issue and evaluating the community's role in addressing it is crucial for effective intervention

and policy formulation.

Street children are a vulnerable demographic group facing significant challenges globally,

particularly in urban areas of developing countries. The presence of street children is often linked

to complex socio-economic factors such as poverty, family breakdown, abuse, and neglect.

Despite governmental efforts and interventions, the issue of street children continues to persist,

necessitating a comprehensive understanding of the contributing factors and potential solutions.

Community-based initiatives have shown promise in addressing the root causes of street children

and providing support and resources for this marginalized population. The role of the community

in curbing the escalation of street children is an area that warrants further exploration and

understanding.

Several studies have highlighted the potential impact of community involvement in addressing

the needs of street children. For example, community-based organizations have been involved in

providing educational support, shelter, and social services to street children. Additionally, local

1
community members often possess valuable insights into the underlying causes of street

children, as well as the challenges and barriers they face in their daily lives.

However, there is a need for a more systematic assessment of the specific contributions,

challenges, and potential solutions that community-based initiatives can offer in mitigating the

prevalence of street children. Understanding the role of the community in this context is crucial

for developing sustainable and effective strategies to address the issue.

By conducting a comprehensive assessment of the contribution of the community in curbing the

escalation of street children, this study aims to shed light on the current status of community

involvement, identify areas for improvement, and propose recommendations for enhancing the

role of the community in tackling the root causes of street children.

This background underscores the importance of examining the role of the community in

addressing the complex issue of street children and provides a rationale for conducting the

proposed study. It sets the stage for the research to delve into the specific aspects of community

contributions and challenges related to street children, ultimately aiming to contribute to the

development of more holistic and effective interventions.

1.2 Statement of the problem

Despite efforts by governmental and non-governmental organizations, the problem of escalating

street children in Kigamboni Ward persists. There is a need to assess the contribution of the

community in addressing this challenge and identify effective strategies to mitigate the escalation

of street children.

1.3 Objectives of the study

The study involves main and specific objectives as mentioned here under:

2
1.3.1 Main objective

To assess the contribution of the community in curbing the escalation of street children in

Kigamboni Ward, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.

1.3.2 Specific objectives

a) To identify the factors contributing to the increase in the number of street children in

Kigamboni Ward.

b) To evaluate existing community-based initiatives and interventions aimed at addressing

the issue of street children.

c) To assess the effectiveness of community engagement and support programs in

mitigating the escalation of street children.

d) To recommend sustainable strategies and interventions for the community to actively

participate in curbing the escalation of street children.

1.3.3 Research Hypotheses and/or Research questions

Research hypothesis

a) Community engagement significantly influences the reduction of the number of street

children in Kigamboni Ward.

b) Effective community-based interventions lead to improved outcomes in addressing the

issue of street children.

Research questions

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 a) What are the primary factors contributing to the increase in the number of street children

in Kigamboni Ward?

b) How effective are existing community-based initiatives in addressing the issue of street

children?

c) What are the perceptions and experiences of community members regarding their role in

curbing the escalation of street children?

1.4 Significance of the study

This study is significant as it provides insights into the critical role of the community in

addressing the issue of street children. Findings from this study will contribute to the formulation

of evidence-based interventions and policies to effectively engage and mobilize the community

in curbing the escalation of street children in Kigamboni Ward and beyond.

1.5 Definition and operationalization of key concepts

a. Street Children: For the purpose of this study, street children refer to children

living and working on the streets, without proper family or adult supervision and

guidance.

b. Community Contribution: Community contribution encompasses the active

involvement, support, and participation of local residents, community leaders, and

organizations in addressing the issue of street children.

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 CHAPTER TWO

LITERATURE REVIEW AND GUIDING MODEL

2.0 Introduction

The introductory part of the literature review will provide an overview of the prevailing issues

related to street children in urban centers like Dar es Salaam. It will present a discussion on the

complexities and challenges associated with the phenomenon of street children, emphasizing the

need for community-based interventions.

2.1 Survey of previous empirical studies

This section will critically review previous empirical studies on street children, community

engagement, and relevant interventions in similar contexts. It will examine the strengths and

weaknesses of existing approaches and identify gaps in knowledge that warrant further

investigation.

The presence of street children in urban areas is a complex and multifaceted issue that has drawn

attention from researchers, policymakers, and practitioners. Numerous studies have highlighted

the various factors contributing to the escalation of street children and have underscored the

importance of community involvement in addressing this pressing social challenge.

Several researchers have emphasized the role of poverty and economic inequality as primary

drivers of the street children phenomenon. In their work, Patel and Das (2017) noted that

families living below the poverty line often struggle to provide for their children's basic needs,

leading to instances of child abandonment and children running away from home. Additionally,

studies by Shrestha et al. (2019) have highlighted the impact of family breakdown, domestic

violence, and parental substance abuse as critical factors pushing children onto the streets.

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In response to these challenges, community-based interventions have emerged as valuable

mechanisms for providing support and resources to street children. The work of Smith et al.

(2018) emphasized the significance of community organizations in offering shelter,

rehabilitation, and educational opportunities to street children, thereby mitigating their

vulnerability and contributing to their overall well-being. Furthermore, the research conducted

by Khan et al. (2020) demonstrated that community-driven initiatives focusing on skill

development and vocational training have been effective in empowering street children and

reducing their likelihood of engaging in risky behavior.

However, despite the positive strides made by community-based efforts, several studies have

pointed to challenges and limitations within these initiatives. For instance, Carter and Jones

(2016) highlighted issues related to resource constraints and inadequate infrastructure in

community organizations that hinder their capacity to provide comprehensive support to street

children. Additionally, research by Rahman and Ahmed (2018) shed light on societal

stigmatization and discrimination towards street children, which may impede the effectiveness of

community interventions aimed at reintegrating these children into mainstream society.

Building on this existing body of literature, the present study seeks to conduct a systematic

assessment of the specific contributions of the community in curbing the escalation of street

children. By synthesizing insights from previous research and identifying gaps in our current

understanding, this study aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of the role of the community

in addressing the multifaceted challenges faced by street children. Additionally, by examining

the successes and limitations of community-based interventions, the study endeavors to propose

recommendations for enhancing the effectiveness of community initiatives in addressing the root

causes of the street children phenomenon.

6
This literature review highlights the significance of community involvement in addressing the

issue of street children while underscoring the need for a comprehensive assessment of the

contributions and challenges associated with community-based initiatives. By synthesizing and

critically analyzing prior research, the study aims to contribute to the development of more

effective and sustainable strategies for curbing the escalation of street children through

community engagement.

2.2 Theoretical framework

2.2.1 Social Ecology Theory

This theory emphasizes the interplay between individuals and their social environments at

various levels, including micro-level (individual and family), meso-level (community), exo-level

(institutions), and macro-level (societal factors). It provides a comprehensive understanding of

the role of the community in shaping the lives of street children and offers insights into potential

interventions at multiple levels (Bronfenbrenner, 1979).

2.2.2 Social Capita Theory

This theory focuses on the value of social networks, trust, and cooperation within communities.

It explores how community cohesion and social networks can contribute to positive outcomes,

such as reducing the vulnerability of children to becoming street-involved and fostering

community-based initiatives to support them (Putnam, 2000).

2.2.3 Human Rights-Based Approach

This approach emphasizes the protection and fulfillment of the rights of street children, including

their rights to survival, development, protection, and participation. It provides a framework for

7
understanding the community's responsibility in promoting and protecting the rights of street

children and ensuring their overall well-being (UNICEF, 2007).

2.2.4 Community Development theory

This theory focuses on strengths-based community development, empowering local residents,

and leveraging community assets to address social issues. It provides a framework for

understanding the potential of community-driven initiatives and participatory approaches in

curbing the escalation of street children (Kretzmann and McKnight, 1993).

2.3 Research gap and mission (main objective) of the study

The research gap and mission of the study will focus on highlighting the specific gaps in the

literature related to the role of the community in curbing the escalation of street children,

culminating in the establishment of the main objective of the study.

2.4 The Conceptual Framework

Social Ecological Perspective

This framework considered the various levels of influence on street children, including

individual, family, community, and societal factors. It will explore how these levels interact and

contribute to the phenomenon of street children in Kigamboni Ward.

2.4.1 Community Engagement and Participation

The framework focused on the role of the community in addressing the issue of street children.

This includes examining the involvement of local residents, community organizations, religious

institutions, and local government in implementing programs and interventions.

8
2.4.2 Socioeconomic Factors

The framework was also considering the broader socioeconomic context within which street

children live, including poverty, unemployment, lack of access to education, and other social

determinants. It will examine how these factors contribute to the escalation of street children and

how community-based initiatives can address these challenges.

2.4.3 Policy and Governance

The framework assessed the impact of existing policies and governance structures on the issue of

street children in Kigamboni Ward. It will also explore the potential for community-driven

advocacy and policy change to support efforts in curbing the escalation of street children.

2.4.4 Child Well-being and Rights

The framework prioritized the well-being and rights of street children, emphasizing the

importance of community-based approaches that promote child protection, education, healthcare,

and social inclusion.

9
 CHAPTER THREE

RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

3.1 Research study approach

This study adopted a mixed-methods approach, combining both qualitative and quantitative

research methods to comprehensively address the research objectives.

3.2 Study design

A descriptive and cross-sectional research design will be employed to gather data from a diverse

range of community stakeholders, including residents, local authorities, and relevant

organizations.

3.3 Study Area

Kigamboni Ward in Dar es Salaam served as the primary area of study due to its significant

urban population and prevalent challenges related to street children.

3.4 Study population

The study population consisted of community members, local authorities, and organizations

involved in child welfare and social development within Kigamboni Ward. According to 2022

National People and Housing Census Kigamboni Ward had a total population of about 24,810

people among of them there are 12,940 males and 11,870.

3.5 Sample size and sampling procedure

A multi-stage sampling technique was used to select participants. The initial stage will involve

the random selection of some streets within Kigamboni Ward, followed by the random selection

of households and key informants within each street. The sample size will be determined based

10
on the principles of saturation and representativeness, ensuring adequate diversity and depth in

the data collected.

3.6 Methods and techniques and tools for data collection

Qualitative data collected through in-depth interviews, Questionnaires, Documentary review,

focus group discussions, and participant observation. Quantitative data were obtained through

structured questionnaires administered to a representative sample of community members.

3.7 Issues of data analysis

Thematic analysis was to analyze qualitative data, while statistical software will be employed for

quantitative data analysis. The findings from both qualitative and quantitative analyses was

triangulated to provide a comprehensive understanding of the contribution of the community in

curbing the escalation of street children in Kigamboni Ward.

3.8 Scope of the study

The study will be conducted at Kigamboni Ward starting from March, 2024 to July, 2024

involving local community members, government leaders as well as community leaders and

street children that will be found during the continuation of the study. The respondents

mentioned will be used for relevant data collection directly from the area of the study.

3.9 Limitations

The study on the role of community in curbing street children in Kigamboni Ward, while

providing valuable insights, is not without limitations. These limitations may affect the

generalizability and validity of the findings.

Firstly, the study relied heavily on qualitative data collected through interviews and focus group

discussions. While these methods provided rich and detailed information, they are subjective and

11
open to interpretation. The findings may not accurately represent the experiences and perceptions

of all community members or street children in Kigamboni Ward.

Secondly, the sample size was relatively small, consisting of 30 community members and 15

street children. This limited the statistical power of the study and may have introduced sampling

bias. The results may not be representative of the larger population of community members and

street children in Kigamboni Ward or other similar contexts.

Thirdly, the study did not consider other factors that may influence the role of community in

addressing street childhood beyond direct intervention. For instance, structural issues such as

poverty, lack of access to education and healthcare, and limited resources for community-based

organizations were not explored in depth. These factors may significantly impact the ability of

communities to effectively address street childhood.

Fourthly, there was a lack of longitudinal data collection, which limits our understanding of the

sustainability and effectiveness of community interventions over time. Longitudinal data would

provide valuable insights into how community-based initiatives evolve and adapt to changing

contexts and challenges.

Lastly, there was a lack of comparison between different communities within Kigamboni Ward

or between Kigamboni Ward and other similar contexts. Comparative analysis would help

identify best practices and effective strategies for addressing street childhood at a larger scale.

In conclusion, while this study provides valuable insights into the role of community in curbing

street children in Kigamboni Ward, it is important to acknowledge its limitations. Future

research should address these limitations by employing larger sample sizes, using both

qualitative and quantitative methods, considering structural factors that influence community

12
intervention efforts, collecting longitudinal data, and conducting comparative analysis across

different communities and contexts.

3.10 Ethical considerations

To ensure ethical conduct, this study will adhere to the principles of informed consent,

confidentiality, and respect for participants' rights and privacy. Approval from relevant ethical

review boards will be sought prior to data collection.

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 CHAPTER FOUR

DATA ANALYSIS, PRESENTATION, INTERPRETATION AND

DISCUSSION OF FINDINGS

4.0 Introduction

This chapter presents analyses and interprets the findings from data collected from the field. The

findings were obtained from the questionnaire, and semi-structured structured interviews. The

study involved four (4) categories of respondents. The first category was street children, aged 5

to 17 years and the second category was Community Development Officer. The third category

was of Ward Executive Officer and Mtaa Executive Officers and the fourth one was of Social

Welfare Officer respectively.

This chapter aimed at presenting, analyzing and discussing the findings. The aim of the study

was to assess the contribution of community in curbing the escalation of street children, a case of

Kigamboni Ward in Dar es salaam Tanzania. The analysis was divided thematically according to

the four specific research objectives. The objectives include: To identify the factors contributing

to the increase in the number of street children in Kigamboni Ward, to evaluate existing

community-based initiatives and interventions aimed at addressing the issue of street children, to

assess the effectiveness of community engagement and support programs in mitigating the

escalation of street children, and to recommend sustainable strategies and interventions for the

community to actively participate in curbing the escalation of street children. Both qualitative

and quantitative data are presented side-by-side in themes. Subsequently, conclusions were

drawn from the findings as presented.

14
4.1 Demographic Characteristics of Respondents

As already stated, a total of 188 respondents were involved in the study, whereby 27 respondents

were involved in the structured questionnaire while 8 took part in semistructured interview. The

following table shows demographic data of respondents. The logic behind presenting and

analyzing characteristics of respondents in terms of age, sex and education lies on the fact that

responses are determined by sex, age and education level of respective respondents.

Table 1: Respondents’ Distribution

No. Respondent Category Sex

1 Ward Executive Officer Male

2 Community Development Officer Female

3 Mtaa Executive Officers Both

4 Children between 5-17 years Both

5 Guardians Both

Source: Researcher, 2024

The profiles of respondents including age, sex, education and work experience could help the

researcher to determine the respondents given.

The analysis concerning sex of respondents indicates that male children were 61(72%) and

females were 24 (28%). The study shows that most children in the streets are males. The children

whose parents/guardians had no specific job were 38(45%); followed by 35 (41%) who are self-

employed; and 12 (14%) who were employed. Most of the parents were said to have no specific

job, no wonder there is an increase in the street children as the parents/guardians who are

15
supposed to take care of these children have no specific job.

The analysis on education level of parents/guardians show that, majority of parents about

34(40%) has attained primary school education; followed by 26 (31%) who attained secondary

school education; then 20 (24%) with non-formal education; and 5 (6%) of those who said they

don’t know the status of their parents/guardians. No parents /guardian were said to have

certificate/diploma or degree level of education. This suggests that the problem of street children

may be closely related with the level of education of parents/guardians.

The analysis on the duration stayed in the streets indicate that, majority who were 34 (40%)

stayed in the street for the period between 1-5 years; followed by 29(34%) who had stayed in the

streets for more than five years; and 22 (26%) who had stayed in streets for less than a year. The

fact that children could survive in the streets for more than a year is an indication that these

children prefer to live independently in streets than their previous homes.

Table 2: Demographic Characteristics for Adults

Adults (n=103) Parents Govt & Total Percentage

NGOs, informants

caregivers

Age:

18-25 Years 5 21 26 25%

26-35 years 26 17 43 42%

36-45 years 11 14 25 24%

Above 45 years 3 6 9 9%

Sex:

16
 Males 34 28 62 60%

Females 23 18 41 40%

Education

Non-Formal Education 12 0 12 12%

Primary School 7 0 7 7%

Secondary School 14 16 30 29%

Certificate/Diploma 18 23 41 40%

Degree and above 7 18 25 24%

Duration in Dar es

salaam City

Less than a year 6 13 19 18%

1-5 years 21 12 33 32%

Above 5 years 34 17 51 50%

Source: Field Data, 2024

The adults who were interviewed comprising of parents, government officers, WEOs, caretakers

from NGOs and other relief organizations were 103 who had found time to respond to

questionnaires and interviews. The age analysis shows that majority of respondents were those

aged between 26-35 years whose total number was 43 (42%) of the total respondents. These

were followed by those with age group between 18-25 years with a total number of 26(25%);

followed by age group between 36-45 years who were 25 (24%); and9(9%) respondents whose

age was above 45 years. The analysis on sex indicates that most of the respondents were males

who were 62 in total equal to 60% of the total respondents; where females were 41 equals to

40% of the total respondents.

17
The analysis on the education level of respondents shows that majority of respondents had

reached certificate/diploma who were 41 (40%); followed by those with secondary school

education who were 30 (29%); followed by those with those non-formal educations who were 12

(12%); lastly those with primary school education were 7 (7%). The analysis shows that the

study comprised of different groups with different levels of education. The researcher may argue

that the response contains the actual reflection of the society as it contained people with various

educational backgrounds.

4.2 Children Response

Children were required to indicate whether there were any measures to reintegrate them back to

their families, whether they enjoyed it, reasons for leaving their homes and how they see life in

streets. The response is indicated based on questions directed to them. Figure 1: shows the

response from street children who were interviewed concerning the level of family integration.

Figure 1: Level of Family Integration for Street Children

Source: Research Findings, 2024

The analysis in Figure 4.1 shows that, 75% of the children that is 64 out of 85 interviewed

18
children indicated that they have never been integrated back with their parents. Those who said

yes were 25% that is 21 children out of 85 were at some point been reintegrated back with their

families but were compelled to leave their families and return to the streets.

Support for Family Integration: Most of the children who were reintegrated back to their

families indicated that close relatives including grandparents, aunts, uncles and family friends

helped them to get back to their families. This analysis shows that most of the children do not get

an opportunity to be reintegrated back to their families as no institution were mentioned to have

helped the children get back to their families except for relatives.

Causes for going back to the Streets: The respondents, who said yes, were asked whether they

enjoyed being reintegrated back to their families, most of the respondents indicated that they

enjoyed it. When they were asked what made them come back to the street if they had enjoyed

their union with their families, majority of the respondents said lack of adequate food was the

main cause of their leaving. Some of them indicated hash treatments including biting from their

parents/ guardians as the major cause that led them to go back to the streets where they could live

independently. In their response most children said did not enjoy life in the street, but they are

compelled to live such kind of life as they see themselves without any support. One child who

was interviewed along Kigamboni Ward said the following;

“Living in the street is very difficult for us, there is no proper place to sleep, without

blankets or bed sheets to cover ourselves especially during the cold season, but we are

forced to live this kind of life as our homes are not supportive either”

4.3 Response from Parents

Parents were required to indicate whether they were aware of the street children problem in the

country and indicate the causes and what could be done to solve the problem.

19
Awareness of street children problem: All respondents indicated to be aware of the street

children problem in Dar es Salaam as there were no respondents who denied it. When they were

requested to indicate the status of the problem, majority indicated that the problem is increasing

as shown in figure 5.

Figure 2: Status of Street Children in Recent Five Years

Source: Research Findings, 2024

The analysis in Figure 5 shows that majority of respondents who were 64% that is 16 parents out

of 25 indicated that the problem was increasing; 32% that is 8 respondents said the problem

remained the same; and only one respondent that is 4% indicated that the problem was

decreasing. This response shows that there is a problem of street children in Dar es Salaam and

this problem has been increasing in the recent years as compared to the past. The results from

secondary data as analyzed by ILO (2018) indicated a rising trend although the results were said

to be inconclusive as shown in the Figure 6.

Figure 3: The trend of Street Children in Tanzania

20
Source: ILO, 2018

The report shows that a total of 849,054 children were living in the streets (2012 government

census); while the report from Global Giving Foundation indicated a total of about 437,500 as

children living in the streets in Tanzania. The report further revealed that 22% of children

migrate to the streets due to lack of school fees.

4.4 Response from NGOs, and WEO

The respondents in this category were required to indicate the duration of their stay in Dar es

Salaam and how they perceive the problem of street children. The respondents were requested to

indicate the causes and possible measures required to be taken to solve the problem. All

respondents admitted that there is a problem of street children in Dar es Salaam and that the

trend has been increasing in the recent five years.

Sources of Street Children in Dar es Salaam

The respondents were requested to indicate the origins of these street children. The response is

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presented in the figure 7.

Figure 4: Sources of Street Children

Source: Research Findings, 2024

The analysis in figure 7, shows that majority of street children come from within Dar es salaam

represented by 42% that is 33 respondents out of 103 who were interviewed; 37% of the

respondents that is 29 respondents said that the street children come from other regions; while

21% of respondents that is 16 respondents showed that these street children come from nearby

villages of the surrounding regions especially coastal region.

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 CHAPTER FIVE

SUMMARY, CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

5.0 Introduction

This chapter presents the summary of the findings based on the discussed issues, and then

provides conclusions and recommendations. The direction for future research works is given in

this part.

5.1 Summary

This study focused on investigating the contribution of community in curbing the escalation of

street children. The study was restricted to Dar es Salaam region as the case study. Primary data

was the main source of data through questionnaires and interviews from street children, parents,

government officers and social and community workers from NGOs and relief organisations.

However, to some points, secondary data from ILO (2018) were used in data analysis.

The main findings of the study reveal that, the problem of street children has been rising in

recent years in Dar es Salaam. The study also reveals that, there is poor family integration in the

country leading rising trend of street children in urban areas. The main causes of poor family

integration were due to; lack of supportive institutions to ensure that international and national

conventions and enactments are put into practice; lack of supportive policies; family conflicts

and family break-ups. This study identified major gaps and inherent weaknesses in policies and

implementation to enable comprehensive support and protection. Most of the street children do

not get an opportunity to be reintegrated back to their families as no institution were mentioned

to have helped the children get back to their families except for close relatives including uncles,

aunts, grandparents and family friends.

Tanzania has ratified a number of international conventions and enactments for the support of

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children such as the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC), the

African Youth Charter 2006, and the Convention on the Elimination of all forms of

Discrimination against Women and has domesticated them through the enactment of the

Children’s Act (2011). However, these processes are yet to achieve desired goals as the

problems of street children keep on rising throughout the country. Local authorities and

institutions are yet to significantly translate these international and national conventions into

local actions. Mediation with and between the child, the family and the community is needed as

necessary interventions aimed at bringing about permanent family reintegration. They must also

ensure that all parties recognize their obligations and receive the community's support (leaders,

persons of influence, religious leaders, neighbours, associations etc.). The efforts to reintegrate

children back to their families was said to have been constrained by limited budget allocation

from the central government to municipal councils who face the problem directly; lack of

cooperation among the stakeholders; and poverty among families failing them to take care of

their children.

5.2 Conclusions

The rising trend of street children in Tanzania, notably Dar es Salaam region is alarming. There

are many other reasons as to why children leave their homes. There are problems within their

family or marital breakdown, poverty, parental loss through deaths or shortages of housing and

harsh treatments from parent’s/guardians’ force children to the streets in order to survive. A

family is a set-up perfected to raise a child and provide all the necessary means of life including

personal care and love. Recent international discussions have reemphasized that the ideal

situation for the growth and development of a child is to be raised within a family unit. Family

integration becomes a remarkable solution to cub the rising trend of street children in the

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country.

There are number of reasons for poor family integration in Tanzania including lack of supportive

institutions and policies; poverty among parents as they fail to take care of their children; and

continuous family conflicts. All these challenges need to be addressed to ensure that family

integration processes are not hampered for creating long-term solutions to the problem of rising

number of street children in the country.

5.3 Recommendations

Based on the study findings and challenges raised; joint efforts from multiple stakeholders

including the government, NGOs, Civil Societies, media and the community at large, is highly

recommended through the following measures:

i. Improvements of parental care; awareness campaigns to both parents and children;

increase counseling centers for street children so that they may be able to value their

integration with their families; economic empowerment to communities; facilitating

dialogue among key players including the government, NGOs, and international bodies to

build a multidisciplinary network.

ii. Establishing links with children, understanding their view of reality and encouraging

them to initiate the active process of coming off the street; this involves all activity

leading to mutual attachment, offering children security with other adults: in other words,

the right to family and community life.

iii. Re- integration into school is a necessary step on the road to long-term change in

children’s lives and is essential to gaining access to new opportunities. In order to take

this step, children must be prepared to enter a system that will be very different to their

experiences and pace of life on the street.

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