As more and more children in East and Central Africa are losing parents and becoming more vulnerable to the combined effects of HIV/AIDS and chronic poverty, the question of child care has never been more pertinent. Child care models now need to incorporate a maximum of state support combined with more traditional means of inter- and intra-family support mechanisms. The external role of non-governmental organisations (NGOs) as a catalyst and support for both state and civil society activity is assumed but rarely critically analysed. Identifying these roles and their interdependence is a crucial task in ensuring that vulnerable children receive the care and support to which they are entitled as of right.
Taking Better Care looks at the situation facing orphaned and vulnerable children in the Rakai District in Uganda and at the legacy of Save the Children's Child Social Care Project (CSCP) implemented there between 1991 and 1996. Rakai was particularly hard hit by HIV/AIDS from the mid-1980s onwards and work there can provide useful lessons about how to support orphans and vulnerable children in a long-term, sustainable way across Africa.
The CSCP was hailed as a success in creating a more proactive government probation and welfare service and in taking a preventive approach to children’s rights. Taking Better Care examines the impact of the Child Social Care Project (CSCP) and looks at trends in Rakai since the CSCP ended. In conclusion, this report outlines lessons learned and providesrecommendations for future action.
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