Surge in street children sparks security concerns in Jinja
The community’s involvement and government action are crucial in addressing this pressing issue to help guide these children toward a more positive future.
Jinja: Jinja City officials are increasingly alarmed by the rising involvement of street-connected children in criminal activities, which has led to public fear and unrest.
Mirembe Dorothy, the Senior Probation and Welfare Officer in Jinja City, emphasized the need for the community to refrain from giving money to these children, as this behavior encourages them to engage in crime and often leads to their escape from rehabilitation centers.
Many of these children hail from areas like Kasese and Karamoja and often target the expatriate community for financial gain.
Dorothy noted that there are reports suggesting that some individuals exploit these street children for money, only to take a portion of their earnings.
A major challenge facing Jinja authorities is the lack of sufficient rehabilitation centers in the city, coupled with laws that restrict their ability to detain children found on the streets. As a result, many children escape rehabilitation facilities, lured by the prospect of quick cash, especially during nighttime.
“These kids could be engaged in productive activities and supporting their families, but instead, they end up on the streets,” Dorothy stated.
She urged the community to take responsibility for their children, ensuring they are not left to beg on the streets, and called on the government to enhance the availability of rehabilitation centers.
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