SOCIO-ECONOMIC FACTORS OF STREET CHILDREN IN INDUSTRIAL ARE, MBALE CITY
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Date
2025-09-19
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Uganda Christian university
Abstract
This study sought to find out the socio-economic factors influencing prevalence of street
children in industrial and the literature was reviewed according to the three objectives which
include; to find out the social factors influencing prevalence of street children in industrial area, to
find out the economic factors influencing prevalence of street children in industrial area, to find
out the relationship between socio-economic factors and prevalence of street children in industrial
area. The researcher used a sample size of 63 respondents and used questionnaires to collect data
and later the data was analyzed using the statistical package for social sciences (SPSS). Results of
the first objective showed that social factors such as family breakdown, domestic violence, peer
influence, and societal stigma significantly contribute to the prevalence of street children in the
Industrial Area of Mbale City. Supported by the following responses; 54% of respondents agreed
that family breakdown leads to the loss of parental care, pushing children to the streets, 62%
supported the view that stigma and discrimination against poor families increase children's
vulnerability, 61% believed that domestic violence drives children out of hostile homes. Results
of the second objective revealed that economic factors including poverty, unemployment, and lack
of access to affordable education are critical drivers behind the increasing number of street children
in the Industrial Area of Mbale City and were supported by; 56% of respondents indicated that
poverty limits the ability of families to meet children's needs, 80% agreed that parental
unemployment increases the risk of neglect and street migration. Results of the third objective
showed that that there is a strong, positive relationship between socio-economic factors and the
prevalence of street children in industrial area. 75% of respondents acknowledged that social
exclusion combined with economic hardship increases the likelihood of street life, 68% agreed
that financial deprivation weakens family care structures, prompting children to flee. There is need
for the government to establish a comprehensive national child protection policy that prioritizes
prevention, rehabilitation, and reintegration of street children into society. This policy should be
backed by adequate funding and implemented in collaboration with local governments, nongovernmental organizations, andccccvvvvvvvvvcommccommunities.
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