Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA), through its Directorate of Gender, Community Services and Production, held its annual review meeting for all approved children's homes operating within the city.
The event took place on June 13 at Sanyu Babies Home in Namirembe, Rubaga Division, and brought together managers and social workers to discuss achievements, challenges, and updates on the care of vulnerable children.
Zaina Nakubulwa, Supervisor for Orphans and Vulnerable Children at KCCA, noted that there are currently 26 approved children’s homes in Kampala, which offer care for abandoned, unaccompanied, and street-connected children. These homes serve as temporary shelters while efforts are made to trace the children’s families, identify foster parents, or arrange adoptions, particularly for those whose biological families cannot be located.
“This annual review is important as it allows us to assess our work, learn from each other, and ensure we meet the child care standards,” said Nakubulwa. “We are closely collaborating with the Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development to enhance services in these homes, ensuring that each child has a better chance at a brighter future.”
The children in these homes receive support in the form of education, health services, psychosocial rehabilitation, family tracing and reunification, and vocational training. Some homes also cater to children living with HIV or those with special needs.
“We are doing our best to rescue and support these children,” Nakubulwa added. “Currently, 624 children rescued from the streets are enrolled in schools in Napak district.”
Shafik Butanda, Principal Probation and Social Welfare Officer from the Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development, reminded the attendees of the legal obligations for children’s homes.
“Homes operating without approval from the Minister are doing so illegally,” Butanda warned. “Expired certificates must be renewed immediately. A children’s home must be a place of safety, not a permanent residence.”
Butanda emphasized that children's homes should plan for each child’s reintegration from the moment of admission. He urged homes to proactively identify foster parents, focus on family-based care, and ensure no child stays too long in institutional care.
KCCA reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the homes within the legal and policy framework and called on all stakeholders to work together to provide every vulnerable child with a loving, stable, and secure environment.
