The role of the church in the rehabilitation of street children in Uganda. a case of diocese of Kampala District

Abstract

This dissertation investigates the role of the Church of Uganda's Diocese of Kampala (DOK) in rehabilitating street children, a population exceeding 25,000 in the Kampala Metropolitan area. The research is driven by the Ugandan government's fiscal constraints in tackling this crisis, underscoring the need for effective interventions from established institutions like the Church. Using a mixed-methods approach, the study combined quantitative surveys with street children and qualitative interviews with church leaders, NGOs, police, and KCCA officials, focusing on key hotspots within the DOK's jurisdiction. A conceptual framework rooted in Biblical Social Justice and Liberation Theology guided the analysis, positioning the Church as a moral voice for the marginalized. Findings expose a notable disconnect between the Church's spiritual mandate and its practical action. Although the DOK expresses concern, its responses remain largely adhoc, limited to sporadic food (35.3% of churches) and clothing (23.5%) distribution. Critical elements of holistic rehabilitation shelter (5.9%), vocational training (11.8%), and sustained family reunification (11.8%) are significantly underdeveloped. Major obstacles include severe funding shortages, inadequate infrastructure, untrained personnel, overwhelming child numbers, and pervasive community stigmatization. The study concludes that the DOK's current contribution is minimal and ineffective despite its transformative calling. To bridge this gap, the dissertation recommends a strategic shift from episodic charity to holistic empowerment—developing structured Diocesan programs in vocational skills, psychological counseling, and family tracing, alongside building dedicated housing. It also strongly advocates for formal partnerships with government and NGOs to pool resources, share expertise, and influence policies addressing root causes like poverty and family collapse. This research offers an evidence-based framework for the DOK, policymakers, and faith-based organizations to enhance rehabilitation and reintegration efforts, advancing social justice and compassion.