Hunger Drives Karamoja Street Children to Mining Sites in Tapac
Reported By Spurb Ernest
Hunger has pushed an increasing number of street children to mining sites in Tapac Sub County, Moroto District, as they struggle to survive.
The children are believed to have migrated from various districts in Karamoja and neighboring Kenya and a number of estimated 30 children, aged between 8 and 15, are now engaged in mining activities to struggle for food before they return in their streets in the evening.
Joseph Longora, the Katikekile Parish Councilor, expressed concern over the rising number of children on the streets, noting that they are increasingly engaging in criminal activities and disturbing local communities.
Longora also raised concerns over the children’s involvement in drug abuse, including alcohol consumption and smoking, which he said threatens peace in the area.
He urged parents to take responsibility for their children and prevent them from roaming the streets.
David Koryang, the LC5 Chairperson of Moroto, attributed the increase in street children to poverty, hunger, and domestic violence. He confirmed that many families have taken their children to mining sites, where they are used for cheap labor.
Mike Longole, the Mt. Moroto Regional Police Spokesperson, confirmed that the issue had been discussed at a management meeting
