Civil society organizations in the promotion and protection of children’s right from economic exploitation: A case study of Anppcan, Uganda

Abstract

The study explored Civil Society Organizations and the promotion and protection of children’s right from economic exploitation: A case study of ANPPCAN. The study set out to study: the role of Civil Society Organizations in the promotion and protection of children's right from economic exploitation in Uganda, the challenges faced by Civil Society Organizations in the promotion and protection of children's right from economic exploitation in Uganda, and the effects of economic exploitation of children in Uganda. The researcher gathered primary data using interviews, and questionnaires and also secondary data which were obtained through analyzing the available literature from books, reports and journals. The study consisted of 70 respondents who were selected using both stratified and purposive sampling techniques. The study found collaboration with other civil society organizations, civil education, constitutional recommendations, as the roles played by civil society organizations in economic exploitation protection. Orphanage, corruption, policy implementation gaps, poverty, weak laws, and lack of funds were pointed out as challenges faced in the protection of children. Poor quality of work, high school drop outs, increased labour population, persecution by the mob, and permanent damage were cited as the effects of economic exploitation in the area of study .i.e. ANPPCAN Uganda Chapter, Kampala, in the areas of Kisenyi Slums, Kifumbira Slum in Kamwokya, Omukimombasa in Bwaise, George Street in Kampala Central and Katwe Garages. It was concluded that people’s perceptions to any programme are always determined by their levels of education. Educated people showed more positive perceptions than the uneducated towards children’s rights. It was recommended that sensitization and mobilization of the communities should be emphasized so that communities can come to understand and appreciate the need to promote and protect children’s rights. It’s important to note that for any programme to be successful, mobilization and awareness creation are paramount. There is need to fight corruption at all levels of government if a society free from child labour is to be realized. Institutions such as that of the Inspector General of Government (IGG) and that of Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) should be strengthened and well facilitated.