Women leaders in Moroto challenged with the increasing number of street children

21 November 2024, 9:16 pm

By Byamukama Alozious

Women leaders in Karamoja, particularly from Moroto district, are raising concerns over the growing number of street children in Moroto municipality.

This issue was highlighted during an interactive dialogue on public accountability, where women leaders were equipped with knowledge and skills to address pressing community needs using media. The dialogue was organised by the Uganda Media Women’s Association in partnership with the African Centre for Media Excellence, the Editors’ Guild, and Uganda Radio Network under the M-Space project, funded by the Danish Embassy.

Adero Rose Lokii, the District Woman Councillor for Loput sub-county, stressed the urgency of the matter, describing the situation as alarming.

“Many of these children come from rural areas, drawn to the municipality in search of cheap labour. However, instead of returning home or attending school, they end up loitering on the streets of Moroto town, particularly around the market and Kam Swahili,” Lokii said. “This is contributing to increased insecurity, with some children engaging in theft while the community shows little concern.”

Lokii acknowledged the government’s efforts in addressing security issues across Uganda but noted that street children remain a persistent challenge in Moroto. She called for greater focus during the 16 Days of Activism to develop sustainable solutions for these children.

“As leaders, we must act. We need to ensure that these children are given the opportunity for education and a brighter future,” she added.

The situation is further exacerbated by domestic violence in many households, forcing children to flee difficult home environments. According to Nachap Mary, the Deputy Mayor of Moroto municipality, many of these children, particularly girls, are highly vulnerable to exploitation.

“Some are being used by sex workers in exchange for food, exposing them to diseases, abuse, and even death,” she explained. “This cannot continue. These children are the future of Karamoja, and we must protect them.”

The street children in Moroto municipality also originate from neighbouring sub-counties, including Rupa, Kati, Kakitekile, and Napak. Efforts to round up these children have so far identified over 120. Local authorities plan to take further action, such as tracing the children’s parents and returning them to their villages, except in cases where the child is an orphan.

“We are working with NGOs to provide education, materials, and support for these children to ensure they no longer roam the streets,” stated Lokii.

Lokongo Josephine, the Woman Councillor for Rupa sub-county, noted that many of the children on the streets come from families grappling with hunger, neglect, and poor economic conditions.

“In many cases, parents lack the resources to support their children. In some families, polygamy exacerbates the situation, leaving children without proper care and attention,” said Lokongo. She highlighted the particular vulnerability of girls, who often take on the role of breadwinners by assisting their mothers in gathering firewood or charcoal.

The leaders called on the government and relevant authorities to increase support for families in the region, addressing the root causes of child neglect and exploitation.

“Without intervention, we will continue to lose these children to poverty, neglect, and exploitation,” Lokongo warned.

The leaders remain steadfast in their advocacy, determined to ensure that no child is left on the streets and that every child in Moroto district has access to education, protection, and a brighter future.