Street children in Kinshasa: a worrying reality that challenges
In the city of Kinshasa, street children, commonly known as “Shegués”, continue to sow insecurity and precariousness in the Congolese capital. Their massive presence and the criminal acts they commit arouse the concern of the population and raise questions about the measures to be taken to remedy this situation.
These children, aged 6 to 15, operate mainly in downtown Kinshasa, along the Boulevard du 30 juin, in front of supermarkets, as well as in taxi parks and bus stops. Armed with determination and cunning, they solicit alms from motorists as soon as the red light stops traffic. But behind this facade of innocence often hides a much darker reality.
Indeed, these “Shegués” are often the cause of violent thefts, stealing phones, handbags, jewelry or even watches, before disappearing into the surrounding sewers. Their mode of operation in groups, which can reach up to ten members, complicates the task of the police who try to apprehend them.
This situation of insecurity is not limited to the hours of the day, because as soon as night falls, these street children extend their hold on the Gombe, imposing their own law and threatening the safety of passers-by, especially young girls. and women.
Faced with this worrying reality, the population regularly mobilizes to hunt down the “Shegués” and punish them. These actions of mob justice, although reprehensible, testify to the exasperation of the inhabitants and their frustration with the inefficiency of the authorities to solve this problem.
The question that then arises is how to remedy this situation. Measures must be taken to provide street children with opportunities for education, vocational training and social integration. It is also necessary to strengthen security and surveillance systems in high-risk areas, to deter “Shegués” and prevent criminal acts.
The responsibility lies not only with the authorities, but also with the whole of society. It is important to raise public awareness of this problem, to create support and solidarity programs for vulnerable children, and to encourage local initiatives aimed at improving their living conditions.
In conclusion, the presence of street children in Kinshasa remains a complex issue that requires a collective and coherent response. It is essential to tackle the root causes of this situation, while offering children better prospects for the future. Only in this way can we hope for a positive and lasting change in the lives of these marginalized young people