Rebuilding the lives of street children in Uganda

Four Retrak children recently had the honor of participating in a National Conference on Children's Rights in Uganda.

One hundred children from all four provinces were invited to help assess the progress made in the realization of the rights of children under the four pillars of Survival, Development, Protection and Participation. The children advocated for the state to prioritize child protection from sexual violence, child labor, and violence at home and at school.  

The children spoke for the estimated 10,000 children who live and work on the streets of the capital, Kampala, and the almost 400,000 children living as refugees in Uganda due to conflicts. The children also called for the state to strengthen community structures to support the rural children who experience very limited social protection services.

The four children from Retrak were excited to participate in the conference and to raise the issues faced by street children in particular. Maggie, 15, nominated herself for election as Speaker to deliver the children’s paper to the Minister. Although she was not elected, her courage speaks of how Retrak is rebuilding self-esteem and empowering children. Maggie did get the opportunity to speak to the press about the conference. Ann also contributed by asking the Minister “How much is the government doing to protect children living and working on the streets of Uganda?”

At the national celebrations, Retrak had the opportunity to run a stall and talk to people about what we do. Members of parliament and ministry officials were among the people that visited Retrak's stall.

Retrak strives to give street children a voice. This conference enabled street children to be heard on a national level and we were thrilled to be able to participate. Thank you for your support which allows us to do our work on behalf of these children.

Links:

• Retrak America's website