Assessing Social Economic challenges encountered by Rehabilitation centers in Caring for Street Connected Children: A case study of Lilongwe Rehabilitation center

The rise of street-connected children in Malawi has created serious social and economic challenges
for rehabilitation centers responsible for their care and reintegration. This study examined the
socio-economic challenges faced by rehabilitation centers, using Lilongwe Rehabilitation Centre
as a case study. The objectives were to identify the key factors contributing to these challenges,
assess their impact on service delivery and child well-being, and explore sustainable, locally driven
solutions.
The study employed a mixed-methods research design, collecting data from 38 respondents
through questionnaires, interviews, and direct observation. Secondary data were sourced from
policy documents, academic literature, and reports from child-focused organizations. Data analysis
involved descriptive statistics and thematic analysis to capture both quantitative trends and
qualitative experiences.
Findings revealed that rehabilitation centers face persistent challenges including inadequate
funding, shortage of trained caregivers, overcrowding, and limited psychosocial support services.
These constraints negatively affect the provision of basic needs, emotional recovery, and effective
rehabilitation, thereby increasing the risk of children returning to street life. Poverty, family
disintegration, and weak social protection systems were identified as major drivers of the
increasing number of street-connected children.
In response to these challenges, the study identified community participation, income-generating
activities such as small-scale farming, and partnerships with non-governmental organizations as
practical strategies for improving sustainability. These initiatives reduce financial dependence,
strengthen service delivery, and promote community ownership of rehabilitation efforts.
The study concludes that addressing the challenges faced by rehabilitation centers requires
coordinated multi-sectoral interventions that prioritize sustainable funding, caregiver capacity
building, and community-based support systems. Increased government investment, improved
training in trauma-informed care, and the integration of locally driven innovations are
recommended to enhance rehabilitation outcomes and support the long-term reintegration of street￾connected children in Malawi.