The effectiveness of the child protection mechanisms against abuse in Wakiso District; A case study of Nangabo sub-county

Abstract

This study considers child protection as a set of services designed by both government and other stakeholders to protect children and young people who are underage and to encourage family stability. The central aim of this study was to assess the effectiveness of the child protection mechanisms against abuse in Wakiso District, a case study of Nangabo Sub-county. The researcher sought to find out the child protection mechanisms in place in Nangabo Sub county, identify the challenges/gaps that exist within the different child protection mechanisms, ascertain the extent to which the mechanisms in place have been effective and also assess the challenges facing NGOs and other stakeholders involved in the fight against child abuse. A total of 91 respondents were interviewed and these included children, community leaders, NGO/government workers implementing child protection mechanisms, local police, religious leaders and politicians. Primary data was collected by the use of face to face interviews, FGDs, questionnaires and key informant interviews. The researcher found out that there are several child protection mechanisms in place and these mechanisms are being implemented by NGOs in the area, local police, community development officers, local councils, magistrates’ courts and elders. These mechanisms face a lot of challenges ranging from economic to social challenges. Majority of the respondents (over 57.2%) said the existing mechanisms were not effective but some of the respondents appreciated the role played by these systems. My conclusion is that it is not effective to address child protection as a separate and stand-alone issue given its linkage with other areas, it is vital to consider the protection aspect of any issue being considered. As a recommendation, there is need to put children at the centre of protecting their rights by making them take the lead and also enhance these mechanisms so as to make them more effective.