Abstract:
Street children represent a highly vulnerable population in urban Ethiopia facing immense
risks and deprivations. However, most studies have focused on major cities, with limited
evidence on street children in mid-sized towns. This study explored the socioeconomic
conditions, challenges, coping strategies and intervention coverage and service gaps among
street children in Ambo Town through a mixed-methods approach. Survey, focus group
discussions (FGD), key informant interviews (KII) and observations offered in-depth
perspectives into livelihood challenges of street children in the study area. Quantitative
surveys of 135 street children revealed a disadvantaged population of predominantly older
male youth (87% male), with high levels of unschooled status (16%) and school dropout
(97%). Key drivers identified were poverty (60%) and family disruption (16%). On the streets,
95% faced frequent food shortage, 90% substance abuse, and 56% violence. Coping via
scavenging, substance abuse and unsafe work was common. Despite awareness, intervention
participation was low. In-depth focus groups, interviews and observations reinforced
immense hardships faced by street children, especially those excluded from intervention
programs due stigma, under capacity, lack of trust, lack awareness and lack of tailored
services. To uphold rights and wellbeing, a localized policy response is imperative covering
social protection, basic services, child protection, rehabilitation services and sensitization
campaigns. Evidence-based, coordinated action across sectors with street children's
participation is vital to address vulnerabilities and gaps. This study spotlights acute needs
among Ambo Town’s Street children that require dedicated investments and policy reforms
centered on their unique urban realities. It provides novel insights to inform targeted,
impactful interventions improving street children's lives in mid-sized towns in Ethiopia.
