A critical review of child abuse and its management in Africa
1Department of Child Health, School of Medicine and Dentistry, College of Health Sciences, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana.
Insights
Child abuse in Africa poses a significant threat to sustainable development. Prioritizing early identification and prevention strategies is crucial for protecting children and strengthening institutions across the continent.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Child Welfare
- African Studies
Background:
- Child abuse, particularly sexual abuse, presents a substantial threat to sustainable development goals in Africa.
- Growing recognition of the long-term detrimental effects of child abuse underscores its public health significance.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current management strategies for child abuse in Africa, with a focus on sexual abuse.
- To identify effective preventive practices suitable for resource-limited settings.
Main Methods:
- A narrative review of literature on child abuse in African countries and globally.
- Searches were conducted in Medline and reference lists in December 2016.
Main Results:
- The review provides an overview of child abuse management and prevention in Africa.
- It highlights the need for context-specific interventions in resource-limited environments.
Conclusions:
- Early identification of child abuse cases is essential.
- Research into preventative strategies and the establishment of robust institutions are critical for supporting survivors and advancing the continent.
Introduction:
Child abuse in Africa is a major threat to the achievement of the sustainable development goals on the continent and has become increasingly topical with a dramatic increase in recognition and an appreciation of the long term harmful effects on the affected population. The aim of this review was to outline current management of child abuse (especially sexual abuse) and highlight current preventive practice that could be beneficial in a resource-limited environment.
Methods:
A search of Medline and reference lists of the literature on child abuse in African countries and relevant world literature was conducted in December 2016. The review was written narratively, rather than systematically as a general overview was desired, instead of a focused view of individual aspects of child abuse.
Recommendations:
Opportunities for early identification of child abuse, as well as research into preventative strategies should be prioritised. Establishing strong institutions and guidance to tackle abuse when it occurs is both beneficial to the survivors and the continent at large.
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