EXAMINING THE ROLE OF PARENTING IN THE RISE OF STREET-CONNECTED CHILDREN IN LILONGWE, MALAWI.

The phenomenon of street-connected children remains a persistent social challenge in Malawi, particularly in urban centers such as Lilongwe. While poverty, urbanization, and economic inequality are widely recognized contributors, the role of parenting in influencing children’s transition to street life has received comparatively limited scholarly attention. This study examines how parenting practices, family dynamics, and caregiver-child relationships contribute to the rise of street-connected children in Lilongwe, Malawi. Guided by a socio-ecological framework, the research explores how inadequate parental care, lack of supervision, and family breakdown shape children’s vulnerability to street life.
The study employed a qualitative research design, utilizing in-depth interviews and focus group discussions with street-connected children, parents or guardians, social workers, and community leaders. Data were analyzed thematically to identify recurring patterns related to parenting behaviors and household environments. Findings reveal that harsh parenting practices, domestic violence, abuse and the inability of parents to meet children’s basic needs significantly influence children’s decisions to leave home. Additionally, the absence of emotional support and positive parental engagement emerged as critical factors pushing children toward the streets and peer support.
The study further highlights that parenting challenges are often intertwined with broader structural issues such as poverty, unemployment, and limited access to social services, which constrain caregivers’ capacity to provide adequate care. The research concludes that addressing the issue of street-connected children requires interventions that go beyond economic support to include parenting education, family strengthening programs, and community-based child protection mechanisms. By emphasizing the central role of parenting, this study contributes to a deeper understanding of the root causes of street-connectedness and provides evidence-based recommendations for policymakers and social service providers working to promote child welfare in urban Malawi.