The Plight of Immigrant Children on the streets of Accra: The Role of Churches and NGOs

The phenomenon of Street children is a growing social and political concern in many developing countries. Ghana is not an exception to the growing trend of children providing for themselves on the streets but more troubling is the trend of increasing street children of immigrant background in urban and rural cities. However, little is known about this unique population in Ghana. This thesis work arose from the social observation of the increasing population of immigrant street children in Accra, Ghana. The study brings to light the existence of immigrant children on the streets of Accra and examine their living conditions and establish the roles played by both The Church and NGOs in the welfare of these children. It also brings to light the problems, difficulties and challenges faced by immigrant street children. This research study was carried out in Accra, Ghana. Interviews using questionnaire was used in the study. A total of 30 street children were interviewed and they are originally from other countries across Africa. The result of the study presents the daily lives of street children, their attitudes, and the challenges they face on the streets. The results can be used as a motivation for organizations and religious institutions to widen their programs to include immigrant street children. Keywords: Street children, Immigrant childre