Voices from the street: exploring street song and the livelihood strategies of street-connected children in Addis Ababa
This study explored how street-connected children in Addis Ababa employ street song as a form of expression, a coping mechanism, and a means of earning a livelihood. Employing a phenomenological approach, it collected qualitative data from 20 semi-structured, in-depth interviews and used thematic an...
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| Main Authors: | , |
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| Format: | Article |
| Language: | English |
| Published: |
Taylor & Francis Group
2025-12-01
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| Series: | Cogent Social Sciences |
| Subjects: | |
| Online Access: | https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/10.1080/23311886.2025.2528412 |
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| Summary: | This study explored how street-connected children in Addis Ababa employ street song as a form of expression, a coping mechanism, and a means of earning a livelihood. Employing a phenomenological approach, it collected qualitative data from 20 semi-structured, in-depth interviews and used thematic analysis. The findings underscore the importance of survival strategies like street song in helping street-connected children cope with and adapt to the daily challenges of street life. Street song is a vital survival strategy— employed to attract public attention, evoke sympathy, and secure support from potential almsgivers. Public responses, however, are influenced by the children’s age and appearance, with younger children usually receiving more favorable reactions than older and physically bigger children due to prevailing social perceptions. Despite these disparities, the culture of sharing and mutual support among street peers fosters resilience and social cohesion, enhancing their chances of survival. The study underscores the agency of street-connected children, highlighting their capacity to adapt, express themselves creatively, and contribute meaningfully to decisions affecting their lives. It recommends that organizations working with these children recognize their voices, talents, and experiences when designing interventions, ensuring more responsive and sustainable support systems.. |
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| ISSN: | 2331-1886 |