From Home to the Streets: Identifying Factors Influencing Children's Vulnerability in Dire Dawa City Administration

Abstract

This study, titled "From Home to the Streets: Identifying Factors Influencing Children's Vulnerability in Dire Dawa City Administration," aims to understand the complex issues surrounding street children in Dire Dawa. It identifies the primary factors leading to children's street involvement, examines the everyday challenges these children face, and evaluates the survival strategies they adopt. The objective is to bridge existing knowledge gaps by shedding light on the lived experiences of these vulnerable children, thus contributing to the formulation of support mechanisms that could alleviate their hardships and potentially help them break free from poverty and marginalization. A mixed-methods approach was employed to achieve a comprehensive analysis of the factors contributing to children's vulnerability. Data collection involved both qualitative and quantitative methods: personal interviews, focus group discussions, and observations provided qualitative insights, while structured surveys gathered quantitative data on demographics and socio-economic conditions. This dual approach enabled the study to capture both the individual experiences and broader societal trends influencing street children. Qualitative data was analyzed thematically to identify patterns, while descriptive and inferential statistics provided an empirical understanding of quantitative data, examining correlations between variables such as family income and street life. The findings highlight a range of factors contributing to streetism, including economic hardship, family instability, limited access to education, and lack of social support systems. These insights emphasize the urgent need for holistic, sustainable solutions to address the root causes of streetism. Recommendations proposed include expanding access to flexible education programs, strengthening family support systems, and introducing economic empowerment initiatives for the families of street children. Additionally, food security programs, safe shelters, social protection, and inclusive urban planning are essential to address the children’s immediate needs and long-term security. In conclusion, addressing streetism in Dire Dawa requires a multifaceted intervention strategy. Poverty alleviation, family support, and inclusive urban planning are vital to ensure that these children have opportunities for a stable future. The study’s recommendations offer actionable steps to improve the welfare of street children and foster their reintegration into society, thereby contributing to a more equitable and supportive community in Dire Dawa.