Child Abandonment and Protection of Abandoned Children in Lesotho: Prevention Strategies

Abstract

Abandonment creates risks for the wellbeing of children, while compromising their prospects for social adjustment and advancement. This implies pressure on a country's fiscal base through probable lifelong dependence on public resources. The need for prevention of child abandonment in Lesotho and elsewhere can therefore not be overstated. This article, based on research in progress, discusses possible dangers of child abandonment and neglect, using attachment theory as its theoretical grounding. It considers findings based on two samples (professionals and adoptive mothers) and offers recommendations for the prevention of child abandonment and the protection of abandoned children, with specific reference to Lesotho.

Experiences of childlessness and adoption in marriage among Basotho: A two-cohort phenomenological study

“…Ranked 159/189 in Compound Human Development Indicators with up to 60% of the population living below the poverty datum line, Lesotho's women and children are disproportionately impacted by poverty and its correlates (Tanga et al, 2017). Baby dumping, abandonment and neglect have reached disquieting levels, often under circumstances which threaten babies' lives (Thabane & Kasiram, 2015). However, social prescription of biological parentingwithin marriageacts as a barrier against adoption while government protection for vulnerable children has been found wanting in many respects (Mahao & Sehlabane, 2021;Tamasane, 2011;Thabane & Kasiram, 2015).…”

“…Baby dumping, abandonment and neglect have reached disquieting levels, often under circumstances which threaten babies' lives (Thabane & Kasiram, 2015). However, social prescription of biological parentingwithin marriageacts as a barrier against adoption while government protection for vulnerable children has been found wanting in many respects (Mahao & Sehlabane, 2021;Tamasane, 2011;Thabane & Kasiram, 2015).…”