THE government has initiated a nationwide programme to support children living and working on the streets, marking a significant step towards protecting vulnerable groups and fostering inclusive development.

This new initiative aims to provide comprehensive support to help such children find a safe and productive path forward. The programme, officially known as the initiative to support Children in Street Situations (CiSS), was formally launched in Dar es Salaam yesterday by the Minister for Community Development, Gender, Women and Special Groups, Dorothy Gwajima. 

Gwajima stated: "The government is committed to ensuring that no child is left behind. Every child, regardless of background or circumstance, deserves protection, care and the opportunity to reach their full potential."

 She highlighted that children living and working on the streets are among the most at-risk populations in Tanzania, facing daily threats to their safety, health and education.

The CiSS programme is designed to complement existing government efforts to rescue and reintegrate street-connected children into safe environments.

 It will initially be rolled out in Dar es Salaam, Dodoma and Mwanza regions, focusing on three key areas: education, vocational training and life skills. These components are aimed at equipping the children with the necessary tools to break the cycle of poverty and vulnerability. 

The initiative will not only provide formal schooling but also offer practical skills that can lead to employment and self-sufficiency, ensuring the children are prepared to contribute to society. The emphasis on life skills will address the psychological and social challenges they face, helping them to build resilience and positive relationships.

By expanding this programme nationwide, the government seeks to create a more robust safety net for its most vulnerable citizens, demonstrating a clear commitment to social welfare and human development. This proactive approach aims to not only protect children from the dangers of street life but also empower them to become productive members of society, thereby contributing to the nation's overall growth.