Advocacy and systems strenghtening
Changing systems to protect children
Protecting children requires more than individual support — it requires strong, effective systems.
Railway Children Africa works with government, transport stakeholders and civil society to strengthen child protection systems in Tanzania, helping prevent children from ending up on the streets and ensuring they can grow up safely in families.
Our approach to child protection advocacy
We focus on building sustainable, government-led systems that protect children early and reduce risk. Our work includes:
- Strengthening child protection at transport hubs
- Supporting Social Welfare Officers and safeguarding structures
- Promoting family-based care over institutionalisation
- Expanding parenting and prevention programmes
- Improving early identification and referral systems
- Mapping service gaps for street-connected children
Through coordinated systems and partnerships, we help prevent exploitation and ensure children receive the support they need.
Advocacy for children without parental care
Children do not end up on the streets by chance. Poverty, family breakdown and weak protection systems increase their risk.
For over 15 years, Railway Children Africa has worked with government and partners to strengthen Tanzania’s child protection system — so every child can grow up in a safe, nurturing family.
Our advocacy is evidence-led, collaborative and centred on family-based care.
what we do
Influencing policy and national systems
We work with government and national bodies to:
- Strengthen child protection laws and safeguarding standards
- Advocate for national strategies for street-connected children
- Promote family-based care and effective gatekeeping
Using evidence to drive change
We produce research and insights, including:
- Policy briefs and position papers
- Research on reintegration and care leavers
This evidence informs national planning, funding and reform.
Amplifying lived experience
Children and young people shape our advocacy. We support them to:
- Contribute to national dialogue
- Co-create campaigns
- Influence decision-makers and global movements
Shifting public attitudes
We challenge stigma and harmful narratives through:
- Public campaigns and media engagement
- Community dialogue
- Positive storytelling about street-connected children
Building partnerships
We work with national and global networks to strengthen collective action, including:
- Familia Kwa Watoto Wote Alliance (Secretariat)
- Tanzania Child Rights Forum (TCRF)
- Tanzania Network Against Human Trafficking (TANAHUT)
- Transform Alliance Africa (TAA)
- Families and Futures Coalition Africa (FAFICA)
- Consortium for Street Children (CSC)
- Child Rights Connect (CRC)
Why advocacy matters
Strong child protection systems prevent harm before it happens.
By improving policies, systems and public understanding, we help reduce:
- Family separation
- Institutionalisation
- Violence and exploitation
- The number of children living and working on the streets
When systems respond early and communities are supported, children are safer and families stay together.
Speak to us
- Msasani, Plot 25, First Floor Alfa House, New Bagamoyo Road, Tanzania
- +255 736 113 114
- RCA@railwaychildren.or.tz
Social Networks
- RailwayChildrenAfrica
- railwaychildrenafrica
- Railway Children Africa
About us
Railway Children Africa
We believe in a world where no child ever has to live on the streets.