Exploring Socio Economic Problems of Orphans and Vulnerable Children In Jimma zone Limu Kossa Wereda Limu Genet Gudetu Town.

Abstract

The general objective of the research is to investigate the Socio-Economic Problems of OVCs. The participants of the study were OVCs, Caregivers or families of the OVCs, NGOs, GOs, CBOs and the community members. Qualitative research approach is applied and purposive sampling technique is applied to the study. Exploratory case study is the design to explore the socio-economic problems of the children. The collected data was analyzed using thematic analysis and results and discussions have been made broadly. The study found out that the OVCs are highly vulnerable to social, economic, legal, psychological, physical, and other types of vulnerability than other children. Bullying, stigmatization and neglect are some examples of social problems while inability to meet their basic needs is the economic problem leading them to vulnerability. The study found that there are organizations working on the lives of the OVCs (GOs, NGOs, CBOs FBO) but the service is highly scarce comparing to the actual need. Finally, a recommendation to Government organizations need to implement child policy NGOs Particular attention needs to be paid to the OVCs, CBOs should take an active part in programs that are changing the lives of OVCs and the community should continuously help and empower OVCs.