Central African Young Professionals

Association
Decision N: 329/ MATDDL/DIRCAB/DGAT/DAPSE/SASE

Bangui/ 1 Arrondissement/ Sica1/ Avenue de France/ Rue

N0 055.8

[email protected]

+23672562590/75394050

PROJECT PROPOSAL FOR STREET

CHILDREN IN CAR

1) Introduction

Street children in the Central African Republic (CAR) face extremely

difficult conditions, with many unable to exercise their rights due to
the challenging circumstances in which they live. These children are
exposed to serious risks such as recruitment into armed conflicts,
forced participation in conflicts, child labor, limited access to
education, and forced displacement. The CAR has a Child Rights
Index of 4.44 out of 10, indicating a very serious situation. With a
population of approximately 6.5 million, 44% of whom are children
under the age of 14, the life expectancy in the CAR is 53 years. Poverty
is rampant, with 71% of the population living below the international
poverty line in 2018.
The phenomenon of street children remains a major challenge in the
CAR, with many children facing terrifying conditions on the streets.
Despite efforts by humanitarian organizations to provide emergency
assistance to these children, the situation remains dire. The children,
known as "Godobés" in the CAR, face violence, exploitation, and
abuse, living in a world separate from mainstream society.
Organizations such as the REFERC network are working to support
these children through identification, care, and reintegration efforts.
Now, with the recent promulgation of a new Child Protection Code in
the CAR, there is hope for a better future for these children. The code
aims to strengthen legal protections for children and ensure their rights
are recognized and upheld. This milestone represents a significant
step towards providing a protective environment for all children in the
CAR, allowing them to build the future they dream of. Despite
progress, the journey towards fully realizing children's rights remains
long and challenging, requiring continued efforts from all
stakeholders.
- Importance of addressing this issue
It is of utmost importance to address the issue of street children in
the Central African Republic (CAR) as they face extremely difficult
conditions. These children are vulnerable to a range of risks such as
recruitment into armed conflicts, forced participation in conflict,
child labor, limited access to education, displacement due to
conflicts, and overall poor living conditions. The situation of street
children in the CAR reflects a deep-rooted societal issue that needs
urgent attention and intervention

- Purpose and scope of the project

The purpose of the project should be to provide comprehensive
support and protection to street children in the CAR. This includes
addressing their basic needs such as food, shelter, healthcare, and
education, as well as ensuring their safety from exploitation, violence,
and abuse. The scope of the project should also focus on
reintegrating these children back into society, either through family
reunification, foster care, or alternative care arrangements.
Additionally, the project should aim to provide skills training and
opportunities for these children to break the cycle of poverty and
vulnerability, ultimately empowering them to build a better future for
themselves.

Overall, the project's goal should be to create a conducive

environment where street children in the CAR are given the necessary
support and resources to thrive and lead fulfilling lives. It should
prioritize the protection and well-being of these children, recognizing
their inherent rights and potential as valuable members of society. By
addressing this issue, we can work towards creating a more inclusive
and equitable society for all children in the CAR.

2/- Context:
The context in the Central African Republic (RCA) is extremely
challenging for children, as they face serious risks and obstacles to
exercising their rights. The country has been in the midst of a violent
civil war since 2012, leading to widespread poverty and insecurity.
Children are particularly vulnerable, with many living in the streets or
being forced to work in harsh conditions. Access to education is
limited, and many children are displaced due to conflict and
insecurity. The overall situation is dire, with a significant portion of the
population living in poverty and a low life expectancy.
The plight of street children in the RCA is a major concern, as they are
often exposed to violence, exploitation, and neglect. Many of these
children end up in the streets due to economic hardship, family issues,
or being orphaned. Despite the efforts of various organizations to
support these children, the challenges they face in terms of basic
needs, safety, and future prospects are significant.
The recent enactment of a child protection code in the RCA
represents a significant step towards improving the situation for
children in the country. This new legal framework aims to ensure that
every child, regardless of their circumstances, is protected and has
access to essential services such as healthcare, education, and a safe
environment. It also prohibits the recruitment and use of children in
armed groups, a crucial measure to promote their well-being and
prevent further exploitation.
Overall, while progress has been made in addressing the needs of
vulnerable children in the RCA, much more work remains to fully
realize their rights and ensure their well-being. The enactment of the
child protection code is a positive development, but sustained efforts
and commitment from all stakeholders are needed to create a better
future for all children in the country.
Overview of the socio-economic and cultural factors contributing to
the prevalence of street children in Central African Republic:

The Republic of Central African Republic (RCA) faces a multitude of

challenges that contribute to the prevalence of street children in the
country. The socio-economic context in RCA is characterized by
extreme poverty, with 71% of the population living below the
international poverty line. This widespread poverty leads to families
being unable to provide for the basic needs of their children, forcing
some children to live on the streets.

Additionally, the ongoing violent civil war in the country since 2012 has
created a volatile and insecure environment, displacing many
families and leaving children vulnerable to recruitment by armed
groups. The prevalence of children working in precarious conditions,
being forcibly recruited into armed groups, and facing obstacles to
accessing education further exacerbates the issue of street children
in RCA.
Cultural factors also play a role in the prevalence of street children in
RCA. The lack of social support systems and protection for vulnerable
children, as well as societal stigmatization of street children, contribute
to their marginalization and exclusion from mainstream society.
Furthermore, the limited availability of support services and resources
for street children in RCA hinders their ability to reintegrate into society
and access opportunities for a better future. Lack of access to
education, healthcare, and social protection further perpetuates the
cycle of poverty and vulnerability for street children in the country.
In conclusion, a combination of socio-economic challenges, conflict,
cultural factors, and lack of support services contribute to the
prevalence of street children in Central African Republic. Addressing
these complex issues will require a comprehensive approach that
addresses the root causes of child vulnerability and provides support
for their reintegration into society.

- Statistics and data on the number of street children in Central African

Republic
According to a study conducted by the Ministry of Social Affairs with
the support of UNICEF in 2004, the number of street children in the
Central African Republic was estimated at 6,000. However, 7 years
later, it is believed that the number has significantly increased. It is
estimated that over half of these children are located in Bangui. The
situation of street children in the country has been a major concern
due to the economic challenges faced by many families, leading to
children being forced onto the streets. The plight of street children has
been exacerbated by the current crisis in the country, with children
constituting nearly half of the 2.6 million people in need of
humanitarian assistance. This year, approximately 800,000 children will
require protection from violence, including sexual and gender-based
violence. The adoption of a new code of child protection in the
Central African Republic in 2020 is seen as a significant milestone in
providing enhanced protection and recognition of the rights of every
child in the country.
- Impact of urbanization, poverty, conflict, and other factors on
children living on the streets
Urbanization, poverty, conflict, and other factors have a significant
impact on children living on the streets in the Central African Republic
(CAR). One of the key factors contributing to the presence of street
children in CAR is urbanization. As the population in urban areas
grows, so does the number of children living on the streets. Rapid
urbanization often leads to increased poverty, lack of access to basic
services, and family breakdown, all of which can drive children to the
streets in search of survival.

Poverty is another major factor that affects children living on the

streets in CAR. The high poverty rate in the country, with 71% of the
population living below the international poverty line, means that
many families struggle to meet their basic needs. This economic
hardship can force parents to make difficult choices, such as sending
their children to work or abandoning them altogether. Consequently,
many children end up on the streets, where they face harsh living
conditions and are exposed to various risks.
The ongoing conflict in CAR has also played a significant role in the
proliferation of street children. The violent civil war that has been
raging since 2012 has resulted in the displacement of populations,
destruction of infrastructure, and a breakdown of social services. This
environment of instability and insecurity has made it difficult for
families to care for their children, leading to an increase in the number
of children living on the streets.
In addition to these factors, children living on the streets in CAR face
a myriad of challenges. They are exposed to risks such as recruitment
into armed groups, exploitation, abuse, and lack of access to
education and healthcare. Many of these children have experienced
trauma, violence, and neglect, which can have long-term
consequences on their physical, mental, and emotional well-being.
Despite these challenges, efforts are being made by government
agencies, NGOs, and international organizations to address the needs
of street children in CAR. The recent promulgation of a new code of
protection for children is a positive step towards ensuring the rights
and well-being of all children in the country. This legal framework will
provide children with enhanced protections against violence, access
to essential services, and support for their reintegration into society.
In conclusion, the complex interplay of urbanization, poverty, conflict,
and other factors has had a profound impact on children living on the
streets in the Central African Republic. Addressing the root causes of
this issue, such as poverty, conflict, and lack of social support, is
essential to creating a more inclusive and supportive environment for
vulnerable children. Efforts to provide education, healthcare,
protection, and opportunities for these children are crucial to ensuring
their well-being and future prospects.
3. Objectives:

The main goal of the project is to provide a safe and supportive

environment for street children in the Central African Republic (CAR)
to ensure their protection, well-being, and access to essential services.

Specific outcomes include:

▪ To identify and reach out to street children in various locations

across the CAR to provide them with necessary support and
resources.
▪ To provide these children with access to education, healthcare,
and shelter to improve their overall quality of life.
 ▪ To offer psychosocial support and counseling to help street
children overcome trauma and develop coping mechanisms.
▪ To work towards family reunification whenever possible,
providing guidance and support to reunite street children with
their families.
▪ To empower street children through life skills training and
vocational programs, helping them build a sustainable future for
themselves.
▪ To advocate for policy changes and increased awareness
regarding the rights and needs of street children in the CAR.
▪ To collaborate with existing NGOs and government agencies to
create a comprehensive and sustainable support system for
street children.
Targets to be achieved:

▪ Reach out to and provide support to a minimum of 500 street

children in the CAR within the first year of the project.
▪ Ensure that at least 80% of street children receiving support have
access to education and healthcare services.
▪ Facilitate family reunification for at least 50% of identified street
children, where a safe and supportive family environment exists.
▪ Train and equip a minimum of 100 street children with life skills
and vocational training to help them secure employment
opportunities.
▪ Conduct awareness campaigns and advocacy efforts that
reach at least 100 community members and government
officials to raise awareness about the rights and needs of street
children.
▪ Establish partnerships with at least three local NGOs and
government agencies to create a sustainable support system for
street children in the CAR.
 ▪ Monitor and evaluate the progress of the project regularly to
ensure that objectives are being met and make adjustments as
needed to improve outcomes for street children.
By achieving these targets, the project aims to make a significant and
positive impact on the lives of street children in the CAR, providing
them with the support and resources they need to thrive and build a
brighter future for themselves.
4. Activities

- Description of planned activities to address the needs of street

children

- Strategies for outreach, education, rehabilitation, and support

services
In order to address the needs of street children in the Central African
Republic (CAR), a comprehensive set of activities will be implemented
as part of the project aimed at supporting and rehabilitating these
vulnerable children.

1- Outreach Activities:
▪ Conduct regular outreach programs to identify and engage
with street children in different locations across the country.
▪ Work closely with local communities, including parents,
guardians, and community leaders, to raise awareness about
the importance of protecting and supporting street children.
▪ Collaborate with existing organizations and networks that work
with street children to expand outreach efforts and ensure
maximum coverage.
▪ Distribute informational materials and resources about available
services and support for street children.
2- Education Programs:
▪ Develop and implement educational programs tailored to the
specific needs of street children, including basic literacy and
numeracy skills, life skills training, and vocational training.
▪ Collaborate with local schools, training centers, and
educational institutions to provide access to formal education
for street children.
▪ Establish mobile education units to reach out to street children
who may not be able to attend traditional educational settings.
▪ Provide scholarships and financial support for street children to
continue their education and pursue higher levels of learning.
3- Rehabilitation Services:
▪ Create safe spaces and shelters for street children where they
can access basic necessities such as food, shelter, and
healthcare.
▪ Offer counseling and psychosocial support to help street
children overcome trauma, build resilience, and develop
healthy coping mechanisms.
▪ Provide recreational and creative activities to promote positive
social interactions, personal development, and self-expression.
▪ Facilitate reunification efforts with families and guardians when
possible, ensuring a smooth transition and ongoing support.
4- Support Services:
▪ Establish referral mechanisms to connect street children with
essential support services, including healthcare, legal aid, and
social welfare assistance.
▪ Provide access to healthcare services, including regular check-
ups, vaccinations, and treatment for common illnesses.
▪ Offer skills training and mentorship programs to empower street
children with the necessary tools for self-sufficiency and
economic empowerment.
▪ Engage in advocacy and lobbying efforts at the national and
local levels to raise awareness about the rights and needs of
street children and advocate for policy changes to protect their
rights.
Overall, the project will focus on a holistic approach to address the
unique needs and challenges faced by street children in the CAR. By
combining outreach, education, rehabilitation, and support services,
we aim to provide these vulnerable children with the necessary
resources and opportunities to lead healthier, safer, and more fulfilling
lives.

5. Problems

- Identification of key challenges faced by street children in Central

African Republic
- Barriers to accessing education, healthcare, and social services
- Vulnerability to exploitation, abuse, and violence

Some key challenges faced by street children in Central African

Republic include:

1- Lack of access to basic needs: Street children often struggle to

access basic needs such as food, shelter, clean water, and
clothing. They are forced to fend for themselves in a harsh
environment.
2- Limited access to education: Street children face barriers to
education, as they often cannot afford school fees or lack
proper documentation. Without education, they are trapped in
a cycle of poverty and exploitation.
3- Lack of healthcare: Street children do not have access to proper
healthcare services, making them vulnerable to diseases and
injuries. They often have to rely on makeshift solutions for their
medical needs.
 4- Vulnerability to exploitation: Street children are at high risk of
exploitation, including being forced into child labor, trafficking,
and involvement in criminal activities. They are often taken
advantage of due to their vulnerable situation.
5- Exposure to abuse and violence: Street children are vulnerable
to physical, emotional, and sexual abuse. They are often victims
of violence from both adults and other children on the streets,
making their living conditions even more dangerous.
6- Limited social services: Street children do not have access to
social services that could provide them with support, guidance,
and protection. They lack a safe and stable environment where
they can seek help.

7- Stigmatization and discrimination: Street children are often

stigmatized and discriminated against by society, leading to
further isolation and marginalization. They face judgment and
mistreatment from the community.
8- Lack of opportunities for rehabilitation and reintegration: Street
children struggle to escape the cycle of homelessness and
poverty without proper support for rehabilitation and
reintegration into society. They need assistance to regain stability
and build a better future.
Overall, street children in Central African Republic face numerous
challenges that affect their well-being, safety, and development.
Addressing these issues requires a comprehensive approach that
provides them with the necessary support, resources, and
opportunities to improve their lives. Efforts must be made to protect
their rights, ensure their access to essential services, and create a safe
and inclusive environment for their growth and development.
6. Solutions
- Proposed solutions and interventions to address the problems faced
by street children
- Collaboration with government agencies, NGOs, and community
stakeholders
- Advocacy for policy changes and legal protections for street
children

There are several proposed solutions and interventions to address the

problems faced by street children in the Central African Republic
(CAR).
Strengthening existing support networks: Organizations like the REFERC
and other NGOs working with street children should collaborate more
closely to ensure a holistic approach to addressing the needs of these
children. This can include providing basic necessities such as food,
shelter, and healthcare, as well as offering educational and
vocational training programs to help them build skills for the future.
Reintegration programs: Develop and implement reintegration
programs that focus on reintegrating street children back into families
or alternative care arrangements. This can involve family tracing and
reunification efforts, as well as providing support to families to ensure
they can adequately care for their children.
Education and awareness campaigns: Raise awareness about the
issues facing street children in CAR through education and advocacy
campaigns. This can help mobilize community support and resources
to address the root causes of children ending up on the streets.
Economic empowerment initiatives: Implement programs that focus
on providing street children with opportunities for economic
empowerment, such as vocational training, job placements, and
microfinance initiatives. This can help them build stable livelihoods
and break the cycle of poverty that often leads to children living on
the streets.
Strengthening legal protections: Advocate for policy changes and
legal protections for street children in CAR. This can involve lobbying
for stronger laws against child labor, trafficking, and exploitation, as
well as ensuring children have access to justice and protection under
the law.
Collaboration with government agencies: Work closely with
government agencies at the local and national levels to prioritize the
needs of street children and allocate resources towards programs
and initiatives that support their well-being. This can involve
developing partnerships and collaborations to ensure effective
implementation of interventions.
Community engagement: Engage community stakeholders,
including religious leaders, educators, and local authorities, in efforts
to address the needs of street children. Building community support
and acceptance can help create a more inclusive environment for
these children and reduce stigma and discrimination.
By implementing these proposed solutions and interventions, in
collaboration with government agencies, NGOs, and community
stakeholders, we can work towards ensuring a brighter future for street
children in the Central African Republic. It is crucial to advocate for
policy changes, strengthen support networks, and prioritize the well-
being of these vulnerable children to create a more inclusive and
supportive society for all.
7. Actions
- Implementation plan for carrying out the project activities
- Timeline, budget, and resource allocation
- Monitoring and evaluation framework to track progress and impact

Implementation Plan for the Project Activities:

Identification and Outreach: The first step in the implementation plan

would be to identify and reach out to street children in the targeted
areas in the Central African Republic (CAR). This will involve
collaborating with local organizations, community leaders, and
volunteers to locate and engage with street children.
Needs Assessment: Once the street children are identified, a
comprehensive needs assessment will be conducted to understand
their specific challenges, vulnerabilities, and aspirations. This will help
in developing tailored interventions to address their needs effectively.
Provision of Immediate Assistance: Immediate assistance will be
provided to address the basic needs of street children, such as food,
shelter, clothing, and healthcare. This will be done in collaboration
with existing organizations and resources in the community.
Rehabilitation and Reintegration: After addressing their immediate
needs, a rehabilitation and reintegration program will be developed
to provide street children with access to education, vocational
training, and psychosocial support. This will help them develop skills
and competencies for a better future.
Family Tracing and Reunification: Efforts will be made to trace the
families of street children and facilitate their reunification whenever
possible. This will involve conducting thorough family assessments and
providing necessary support for successful reunification.
Awareness and Advocacy: Awareness campaigns will be conducted
to educate the community about the rights and needs of street
children. Advocacy efforts will also be made to mobilize support from
government authorities, policymakers, and the public for the
protection and well-being of street children.

Timeline, Budget, and Resource Allocation:

The implementation plan will be rolled out over a period of 12 months,

with specific activities scheduled for each month.
A budget of X amount will be allocated for the implementation of the
project activities. This budget will cover expenses related to outreach,
needs assessment, provision of immediate assistance, rehabilitation
and reintegration programs, family tracing and reunification,
awareness campaigns, and advocacy efforts.
Resources will be allocated based on the needs and priorities
identified during the needs assessment. This will include funding for
staff salaries, training, materials, transportation, and other operational
costs.

Monitoring and Evaluation Framework:

A monitoring and evaluation framework will be established to track

the progress and impact of the project activities. This will involve
regular data collection, analysis, and reporting on key indicators
related to the well-being and development of street children.
Regular field visits and stakeholder meetings will be conducted to
gather feedback, assess challenges, and make necessary
adjustments to the implementation plan.
Impact assessments will be carried out to measure the long-term
outcomes of the project, such as improved access to education,
reduced involvement in harmful practices, and successful
reintegration into families and communities.
By following this implementation plan, timeline, budget allocation,
and monitoring and evaluation framework, we aim to make a
significant difference in the lives of street children in the Central
African Republic and create a better future for them.
8. Impacts

- Expected outcomes and positive changes resulting from the project

- Long-term benefits for the community and society as a whole

After the implementation of the project to address the issues faced by

street children in the Central African Republic, several positive
outcomes and changes can be expected. These changes will not
only benefit the children themselves but also have a long-term impact
on the community and society as a whole.
Expected outcomes and positive changes resulting from the project
after its implementation:
Reintegration into society: The project will focus on identifying and
providing support to street children, helping them reintegrate into
society. By offering them education, skills training, and access to
healthcare, the children will have the opportunity to lead more
fulfilling lives.
Protection from harm: The project will ensure that street children are
protected from violence, exploitation, and abuse. By creating a safe
and supportive environment for them, the children will be able to
thrive and grow without fear of harm.
Access to education and healthcare: The project will prioritize
providing street children with access to education and healthcare
services. This will not only improve their quality of life but also give them
the tools they need to build a better future for themselves.
Empowerment and self-sufficiency: Through skills training and support,
street children will be empowered to become self-sufficient and
independent. This will reduce their reliance on the streets for survival
and help them break the cycle of poverty.
Mental health and emotional well-being: The project will also address
the mental health and emotional well-being of street children,
providing them with counseling and support to cope with their past
experiences and traumas.
Long-term benefits for the community and society as a whole:

Reduced crime and antisocial behavior: By providing support and

resources to street children, the project will help reduce crime and
antisocial behavior in the community. Empowering these children to
lead productive lives will contribute to a safer and more harmonious
society.

Strengthened social fabric: The successful reintegration of street

children into society will contribute to a stronger social fabric, fostering
a sense of community and solidarity among residents.
Economic growth and stability: By investing in the education and skills
development of street children, the project will contribute to the
future economic growth and stability of the community. These
children will be equipped to contribute to the workforce and add
value to the local economy.
Improved public health: By providing street children with access to
healthcare services, the project will help improve public health
outcomes in the community. This will lead to a healthier population
and a more robust healthcare system.
Breaking the cycle of poverty: By breaking the cycle of poverty for
street children, the project will have a long-term impact on reducing
poverty levels in the community. Empowering these children to lead
successful lives will create a ripple effect, benefiting future
generations.

In conclusion, the implementation of the project to address the issues

faced by street children in the Central African Republic will bring
about tangible and lasting benefits for the children themselves, the
community, and society as a whole. By providing support, education,
and opportunity to these vulnerable children, the project will create a
pathway to a brighter future for everyone involved.

9. Factors of their flight on the street

- Analysis of the root causes leading children to live on the streets
- Family breakdown, poverty, abuse, neglect, and other contributing
factors
- Psychological, emotional, and social reasons for children leaving
their homes

Factors contributing to children living on the streets in the Central

African Republic:

Family breakdown: One of the key root causes leading children to live
on the streets is family breakdown. Many children in the Central
African Republic come from families that are unable to provide them
with basic needs, such as food, shelter, and education. This
breakdown in family support can be due to various reasons, including
poverty, parental death, illness, or abandonment.
Poverty: Poverty plays a significant role in pushing children onto the
streets. Families living in extreme poverty may struggle to feed their
children or provide them with a safe and stable home. As a result,
children may feel compelled to leave their homes in search of food,
shelter, and a better life.
Abuse and neglect: Children who experience abuse, neglect, or
violence in their homes may see the streets as a safer option. If the
home environment is dangerous or unstable, children may choose to
run away in order to escape from mistreatment.
Lack of education: Limited access to education can also contribute
to children living on the streets. In the Central African Republic, many
children face obstacles in attending school, such as financial
constraints, lack of resources, or insecurity. Without access to
education, children may see no other option but to join the street
community.
Psychological and emotional reasons: Children may leave their
homes due to psychological or emotional reasons, such as feeling
unloved, unwanted, or marginalized within their families. These
feelings of rejection or abandonment can drive children to seek
solace and acceptance among their peers on the streets.
Social factors: Social factors within the community, such as peer
pressure, influence children to join street gangs or groups. These
groups may provide a sense of belonging and camaraderie that
children may not find in their own families.
Exploration and independence: Some children may choose to
explore the world outside their homes and seek independence at an
early age. Curiosity, a desire for freedom, or a need for adventure can
lead children to run away and live on the streets.

In conclusion, the root causes leading children to live on the streets in

the Central African Republic are complex and multifaceted.
Addressing these factors requires a holistic approach that focuses on
strengthening families, providing access to education and social
services, addressing poverty, and creating safe and supportive
environments for children. By understanding the reasons behind
children's flight to the streets, interventions can be tailored to meet
their specific needs and help them transition from street life to a more
stable and secure future.
10. Conditions
- Living conditions and daily challenges faced by street children
- Lack of shelter, food, clothing, and access to basic necessities
- Health risks, exposure to violence, and exploitation
Living conditions for street children in the Central African Republic
(CAR) are extremely challenging and they face daily struggles to
survive. These children are often exposed to grave risks such as
recruitment into armed groups, exploitation, lack of access to
education, and forced displacement due to conflicts and insecurity.
Street children in CAR lack basic necessities such as shelter, food, and
clothing. Their living conditions are precarious, with many sleeping on
cardboard or in makeshift shelters on the streets. They are exposed to
harsh weather conditions, with no protection from rain, cold, or
extreme heat. Lack of access to proper sanitation facilities exposes
them to health risks, leading to various diseases due to poor hygiene.
These children face daily challenges including violence, exploitation,
and abuse. They are vulnerable to physical and sexual violence, as
they navigate the dangerous streets alone. They are often targeted
by criminal elements, leading to further trauma and fear. Many street
children are forced into begging, stealing, or engaging in other illegal
activities to survive, making them easy targets for exploitation by
adults.
The lack of access to education further exacerbates the plight of
street children in CAR. Without proper schooling, these children are
denied the opportunity to break the cycle of poverty and improve
their future prospects. Many street children are illiterate and lack the
skills necessary to secure stable employment, trapping them in a cycle
of poverty and hopelessness.
Health risks are rampant among street children in CAR, with many
suffering from malnutrition, untreated illnesses, and injuries. Limited
access to healthcare facilities and services means that these children
often go without proper medical attention, leading to exacerbated
health conditions and unnecessary suffering.
Exploitation is a common occurrence among street children in CAR,
with many forced into labor, including begging, street vending, or
even involvement in criminal activities. They are often exploited by
adults who take advantage of their vulnerable situation, further
perpetuating their cycle of poverty and marginalization.

In conclusion, street children in the Central African Republic face dire

living conditions and daily challenges that threaten their well-being
and future prospects. Immediate action is needed to address their
needs and provide them with the support and protection they require
to thrive and break free from the cycle of poverty and exploitation.
11. Potential risks or consequences on the community
- Impact of street children on the local community
- Social, economic, and environmental consequences
- Strategies for promoting community engagement and support

The presence of street children in the community poses several

potential risks and consequences that affect the social, economic,
and environmental fabric of the local area.

Impact of Street Children on the Local Community:

1. Increased crime and violence: Street children may resort to
criminal activities to survive, leading to an increase in crime rates
in the community.
2. Negative perceptions and stigmatization: The presence of street
children may lead to stereotypes and stigmatization, affecting
the overall reputation of the community.
3. Strain on resources: Street children may put a strain on
community resources such as healthcare, education, and social
services.
 4. Disruption of social order: The presence of street children can
disrupt the social order and harmony within the community.
Social, Economic, and Environmental Consequences:
1. Social consequences: Street children face social exclusion and
may struggle to integrate back into society, leading to long-term
social issues.
2. Economic consequences: The presence of street children can
impact the local economy through increased demand for social
services and potential loss of productivity.
3. Environmental consequences: Street children may engage in
activities that harm the environment, such as littering or
engaging in drug use in public spaces.
Strategies for Promoting Community Engagement and Support:
1. Community awareness campaigns: Educating the community
about the challenges faced by street children and the
importance of supporting their rehabilitation.
2. Collaboration with local organizations: Partnering with local
NGOs and community groups to provide resources and support
for street children.
3. Vocational training programs: Offering vocational training
programs to equip street children with skills for employment and
sustainable livelihoods.
4. Counseling and mental health support: Providing mental health
support and counseling services to help street children
overcome the trauma and challenges they have faced.
5. Community integration initiatives: Creating opportunities for
street children to reintegrate into the community through
activities such as sports, arts, and cultural programs.
In conclusion, addressing the issue of street children requires a
comprehensive and community-centered approach. By working
together with local stakeholders and implementing strategies that
promote community engagement and support, we can create a
more inclusive and supportive environment for street children to thrive
and contribute positively to society.

12. Conclusion
- Summary of key findings and recommendations
- Call to action for addressing the issue of street children in Central
African Republic
- Reflection on the importance of providing care and protection for
vulnerable children

In conclusion, the situation of street children in the Central African

Republic is dire, with many children facing extreme challenges such
as recruitment into armed groups, child labor, limited access to
education, displacement, and living in precarious conditions. The
country faces a high rate of poverty, with a significant proportion of
the population living below the international poverty line. The issue of
street children is a complex one, with children often ending up on the
streets due to a combination of factors such as poverty, violence, and
family breakdown.
It is crucial for action to be taken to address the plight of street
children in the Central African Republic. One key finding is the
importance of providing care and protection for vulnerable children,
ensuring they have access to education, healthcare, and a safe
environment. The newly promulgated code of protection for children
in the Central African Republic represents a significant step towards
providing better protection for children and upholding their rights. The
explicit ban on the recruitment and use of children under 18 in armed
groups is a positive development that will support efforts to demobilize
and reintegrate children back into their communities.
A call to action is needed to support the implementation of the code
of protection for children and to ensure that its provisions are
effectively enforced. This includes providing support for organizations
working with street children, such as the RFERC network, to ensure that
children are identified and provided with the necessary care and
support. It is also essential to address the root causes of child
homelessness, such as poverty, violence, and family breakdown,
through targeted interventions and support for families.
Overall, addressing the issue of street children in the Central African
Republic requires a multi-faceted approach that includes legal
protection, social support, and economic empowerment. By working
together to provide care and protection for vulnerable children, we
can ensure that every child in the Central African Republic has the
opportunity to thrive and reach their full potential. Let us join hands to
create a brighter future for the children of the Central African
Republic.

Written by: Alphon Percival DALANGUERE

Central African Young Professionals Association’ Coordinator
Children Rights ‘Advocate