Situations de rue et vécu du milieu d’origine : cas des enfants de la rue de Yaoundé, Cameroun

Abstract

This study focuses on the street situations and experiences of street children in Yaoundé, Cameroon, with the aim of understanding the factors that drive them to live on the streets and the consequences on their development. The primary objective is to analyze the socio-economic and cultural issues influencing the lives of these children in order to identify suitable intervention strategies. To achieve this, a qualitative methodology was employed. A total of 30 children living on the streets were interviewed through semi-structured interviews, supplemented by group discussions with educators and social workers. Direct observations were also conducted in various locations throughout the city to enrich the context of the collected testimonies. The results indicate that 70% of the interviewed children fled their homes due to family conflicts, while 20% were abandoned. A significant majority express feelings of loneliness and social exclusion, with 60% reporting experiences of physical or psychological violence. Furthermore, survival mechanisms such as selling small items or begging emerge as common strategies to cope with their precarious situation. The discussion highlights the importance of a holistic approach to addressing the issue of street children. Social stigma and lack of access to essential services, such as education and health care, exacerbate their vulnerability. The findings underscore the need to implement intervention programs that meet the immediate needs of the children while tackling the structural causes that force them to live on the streets. In conclusion, this study sheds light on critical insights regarding the experiences of street children in Yaoundé and emphasizes the urgent need for concerted action among governments, NGOs, and civil society. By providing appropriate support and working to reintegrate these children into society, it is possible to improve their situation and offer better future prospects.