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Introduction: Orphans and separated children have long comprised a large but often times unheard population of communities and countries around the world. They are more vulnerable than children with parents because of their lack of quality health care and education, food insecurity, physical insecurity and community stigma against them all of which can affect their well-being. The 1997 Constitution of the United Republic of Tanzania mandates the protection and support for the child’s health and wellbeing as a fundamental right. However, OSC lack a natural support network made up of immediate family members so they need stronger government and community support for their health and wellbeing.
Objectives: To assess the vulnerability and wellbeing of orphans and separated children in urban Moshi in Kilimanjaro, Tanzania
Method: A case study involving various stakeholders who are involved issues concerned with OSC. In depth interviews were conducted with each stakeholder using special interview guideline questions. Data was analyzed manually using the thematic analysis framework.
Results: This study has tried to describe the increase in number of OSC in Moshi, this increase is mainly the impact of HIV/AIDS, due to the illness children loose their parents who are the primary care givers, they are stigmatized and they are also infected with the virus in different circumstance of life. All these lead to their poor attendance to school and poor behavior for them to seek medical care.
Conclusion: To improve the well-being of OSC, the Tanzanian government should ensure that policies in place are clearly outlined so that they can be easily implemented.
Keywords: Child, Orphan, Separated child, Vulnerability, wellbeing. |
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