This study, commissioned by UNICEF, examines formal fostering policy and practice from the point of view of the Rwandan government and fostering agencies, and explores the perceptions of fostering of children, foster parents, local authorities and other members of local communities.

The overall objective of the study was to compile, consolidate and validate available information on children affected by AIDS, in order to facilitate the development of a long-term national strategy aimed at promoting, protecting and fulfilling the rights of these vulnerable children in Zimbabwe. 

A comprehensive guide to training young people on the development of life skills, such as communication, decision-making, and relationships.

Overviews the causes and consequences of the orphan crisis in Africa and analyzes current social protection responses. Suggests good practices in social protection of orphans and vulnerable children.

Outlines national efforts to disarm, demobilize, and reintegrate former child soldiers with respect to specific political contexts. Includes lessons learned, future challenges, and recommendations.

Country report of Ethiopia on the situation of children in residential care in anticipation of the Second International Conference on Children and Residential Care: New Strategies for a New Millennium, to be held in Stockholm 12 – 15 May 2003.

A report about a case-study in Rwanda documenting the practice of, and policies regarding, fostering (formal and informal). The study also explored the views of children in foster care, caretakers, agencies and local authorities regarding fostering.

An account of Jerusalem Association Children’s Homes’ work involving deinstitutionalization of orphaned children in Ethiopia. The report is a summary of the steps taken by this organization to reunify/reintegrate the children into their families and society and some next steps are also mentioned.

A paper describing a program developed by the IRC in Rwanda for orphans and vulnerable children and youth with a particular focus on minimizing placement of children into centers and finding durable solutions for those already in institutions. The paper discusses IRC’s strategies, and the different components of the program, evaluates the program in the context of Rwanda and offers recommendations to those interested in emulating IRC’s Rwanda program.

A report on a workshop that was presented in Rwanda that sought to share the experiences of of Ethiopia in caring for orphan and vulnerable children. The aim was to provide lessons to colleagues in Rwanda and elsewhere. The report includes statistical data, information on reunification programs, and reviews recent government and NGO policy shifts.