Exploring street children’s recidivism in Harare’s Central Business District after forced removal and reintegration. Findings the City of Harare and Department of Social Welfare · Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Author

Vhulengoma, Fadzai.

Title

Exploring street children’s recidivism in Harare’s Central Business District after forced removal and reintegration. Findings the City of Harare and Department of Social Welfare

Abstract

This research investigated the issue of recidivism among street children in Harare’s Central Business District following their forced relocation and reintegration, aiming to comprehend the core reasons behind their continual return to street existence despite multiple withdrawal and reintegration attempts. The ongoing reappearance of street children in the city centre, in spite of the efforts of authorities, revealed a deficiency in localized studies that examine the repetitive cycle of recidivism through the lived experiences of the children, service providers, and policymakers directly involved. Informed by Strain Theory and a qualitative research framework, this study utilized a phenomenological research method, selecting street children, government officials, and representatives from welfare organizations through purposive, snowball, and quota sampling strategies. Data was gathered through semi-structured interviews and direct observation within Harare’s CBD. The results indicated that enforced removals were motivated more by economic and political intentions rather than genuine concern for the children’s welfare, while recidivism was largely fuelled by systemic inadequacies such as economic difficulties, insufficient reintegration systems, and emotional and psychological obstacles. The research also indicated that addressing recidivism demanded a comprehensive strategy that combined economic empowerment, psychosocial assistance, and inclusive community structures. In spite of the efforts made by the Department of Social Welfare and other stakeholders, challenges remained, including restricted access to education, job opportunities, and secure living conditions. Drawing from the findings, the study suggested incorporating vocational training into reintegration strategies, bolstering psychosocial support and trauma counselling, improving family reunification programs, creating community-based mentorship initiatives, and coordinating multi-stakeholder reintegration frameworks. The insights gained from the study held significance for policy and practice, underscoring the necessity for a more holistic and sustainable approach to confronting streetism in Harare.

Date

June 2025

Publisher

BUSE

Keywords

recidivism

relocation and reintegration

Supervisor

Dr. Mhlanga.