Psychosocial Challenges Facing Orphaned Children and Caregivers in Tanzanian Institutionalized Orphanage Centres

Abstract

This study investigated psychosocial challenges facing orphaned children and caregivers as well as possible intervention strategies that could be adopted to mitigate these challenges in the institutionalised orphaned children centres in Ubungo Municipal, Dar es Salaam. The study used a qualitative research approach and a descriptive research design. A purposive sampling technique was employed to select six orphanage centres. The study had a sample of 67 participants including children receiving orphanage care at the institutionalised orphaned children centres, caregivers and directors of the centres who were selected through purposive sampling technique. Data were collected using in-depth interviews and a non-observation method and were sorted and coded based on themes and presented according to the research questions. Thematic analysis was used in qualitative data. Findings from the study revealed that orphaned children were supported with various services including food, clothes, accommodation, health services, spiritual and educational support, life skills, sports and games. It was found further that the orphans were faced with a lack of adequate health facilities including health insurance coverage, educational materials, sports gear and in some centres inadequate clean and safe water. Caregivers lack counselling knowledge and skills. Therefore, the study recommends community participation in providing care to orphaned children and equipping caregivers with relevant knowledge and skills to perform their duties competently