Social Background to Juvenile Delinquency in Uganda (A Study of Naguru Remand Home, Kampala

• NCJ Number: 70333
• Journal: EAST AFRICAN MEDICAL JOURNAL Volume: 55 Issue: 2 Dated: (February 1978) Pages: 61-64
• Author(s): V L Ongom; F A T Mwambingu
• Date Published: 1978
• Length: 4 pages
• Publication Format: Article
• Language: English
• Country: Kenya

Annotation

Based on a survey of inmates of a detention facility in Kampala, Uganda, and other research studies on delinquency in Africa, the report discusses causes of delinquency and remedial measures.

Abstract

Juveniles are kept temporarily in Naguru Remand Home while awaiting a court order on the disposition of their cases. The program emphasizes educational and recreation activities. From December 1975 through February 1976, 80 males and 17 females between 5 and 17 years old were interviewed about age, tribe, educational level, parents' occupation, and reasons for placement in the home. Detailed information was recorded for only 69 subjects. Medical examinations given to each child discovered many infections from internal parasites, such as hookworm, roundworm, whipworm, and schistosomes. Fathers' main occupations were listed as peasant, businessman, banana seller, driver, army officer, and surveyor; and mothers' occupations were listed as housewife, peasant, banana seller, bar attendant, tailor, and midwife. Most children had been charged with theft. Others had been neglected or abandoned by parents. Previous studies on delinquent youths in Uganda have cited lack of parental care as a major cause and noted that the Kampiringsia Boys' School seemed to produce hardened delinquents who did not reform following their release. In another study of Kampala children, youths stated that they turned to crime because of unemployment and lack of opportunities for higher education. Delinquency can also be an expression of protest and rebellion against society, as evidenced in the Bayaye youth group. Suggested measures to combat juvenile delinquency include improved health care for families, day care centers to promote good health and education for preschool children, improvement of slum conditions, and provision of educational and recreational programs for older children. Eight references are provided.