Street children in Kinshasa: a worrying reality
In the heart of the Congolese capital, Kinshasa, a recurring problem is gaining momentum: the massive presence of street children, also known as “Shegués”. These young people, aged between around 6 and 15, roam the streets of the city, begging or stealing to survive.
The Boulevard du 30 juin is a privileged place for these children who gather in gangs and solicit alms from motorists at red lights. However, this presence is not without consequences. The Shegués take advantage of the slightest opportunity to steal precious goods such as telephones, handbags or jewelry, before disappearing into the sewers that line the road.
Insecurity in the streets of Kinshasa becomes worrying, especially when night falls. Young girls and women are particularly vulnerable to these groups of child offenders who do not hesitate to sow terror and commit acts of violence.
The reaction of the population
Faced with this alarming situation, the people of Kinshasa mobilized recently to track down a group of Shegués responsible for a theft. Witnesses to this heinous act framed the perimeter around the sewer where the thief had taken refuge, hoping to capture him.
After a hunt of nearly 45 minutes, the thief and eight of his accomplices, including a girl, were extracted from their hiding place and held by the crowd while awaiting the arrival of the police. Unfortunately, this arrest was also marked by acts of lynching, testifying to the frustration and anger accumulated in the face of growing insecurity.
A complex situation to resolve
The issue of street children in Kinshasa is a complex challenge for the authorities and society in general. These young people often come from underprivileged backgrounds, victims of poverty and the inadequacy of reception and child protection structures.
It is crucial to develop integrated strategies that go beyond simple repression. Social reintegration and education programs should be put in place for these children, in order to offer them prospects for the future and to break the cycle of delinquency.
It is also important to sensitize the population and promote a change of mentality, by encouraging behaviors of mutual aid and solidarity towards street children.
In conclusion, the growing presence of street children in Kinshasa is a problem that requires urgent attention. It is essential to find lasting and comprehensive solutions to ensure the protection and well-being of these young people, and to restore a sense of security within the community