The Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) through its Directorate of Gender, Community Services and Production has held its annual review meeting for all approved children’s homes operating within Kampala City.
The meeting, held at Sanyu Babies Home in Namirembe, Rubaga Division, brought together managers and social workers to reflect on achievements, discuss ongoing challenges, and share updates on the care and protection of vulnerable children.
According to Zaina Nakubulwa, the Supervisor for Orphans and Vulnerable Children at KCCA, there are currently 26 approved children’s homes in Kampala that provide care for abandoned, unaccompanied, and street-connected children.
These homes serve as temporary sanctuaries while efforts are made to trace families, identify foster parents, or facilitate adoption, especially for children whose biological families cannot be located.
“This annual review is crucial as it helps us take stock of our work, learn from each other, and ensure that we are complying with the standards set for child care,” Nakuburwa said. “We are working closely with the Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development to strengthen services in these homes and ensure every child is given a chance at a better future.”
The children in these homes are supported through education, health services, psychosocial rehabilitation, family tracing and reunification, and vocational skilling. Some homes also cater to children living with HIV and those with special needs.
“We are doing our best to rescue and support these children,” Nakuburwa added. “Currently, 624 children rescued from the streets are enrolled in schools in Napak district.”
Shafik Butanda, the Principal Probation and Social Welfare Officer from the Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development reminded attendees of the legal obligations governing children’s homes.
“Homes operating without approval from the Minister are doing so illegally,” the Butanda warned. “Expired certificates must be renewed immediately. A children’s home must be a place of safety, but not a permanent residence.”
Butanda emphasized that children’s homes should plan for each child’s reintegration from the moment of admission. Homes were urged to proactively identify foster parents, work towards family-based care, and ensure no child overstays in institutional care.
KCCA reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the homes within the legal and policy framework, while calling on all actors to work together to give every vulnerable child a loving, stable, and secure environment.