The plight of street children : the case of Dar es Salaam.

Abstract

This thesis examines the plight of street children in Dar es Salaam. Common features that characterize street children worldwide, especially the way they are viewed in the eyes of the public, law enforcement agencies and the authorities, were explored. The main causes of street children phenomenon in Dar es Salaam were examined with specific emphasis on poverty, abuse, urbanization and the effects of HIV/AIDS. The strategies employed by the children in order to cope with their predicament both physically and emotionally were examined. The problems that street children face in terms of their interaction with the public, especially the law enforcement agencies as well as service providers, were also discussed. While government policies advocating the rights of children are in place, there were reports of street children being treated unfairly particularly being denied their right to participate in matters that impact their lives and widespread victimization was also reported in the name of 'cleaning up' the urban areas.