Street Children in French-Speaking AfricaCEFR A2
20 Jun 2025
Adapted from Laura, Global Voices • CC BY 3.0
Photo by Job Bunana, Unsplash
AI-assisted adaptation of the original article, simplified for language learners.
Street children are a serious problem in French-speaking Africa. Many children end up living on the streets for various reasons like poverty, war, and family abuse.
In Cameroon, street children are called "Mboko," which means children who sleep outside. In the Democratic Republic of the Congo, they are known as "Shégué." These children often have difficult lives and must find ways to survive.
Côte d'Ivoire refers to child gangs as "microbes." These children often engage in violent crime to help their families.
Difficult words
- poverty — Not having enough money for basic needs.
- abuse — Hurtful treatment or harm to someone.
- survive — To keep living despite difficulties.
- children — Young people, not yet adults.
- violent — Involving physical force or harm.
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- What do you think can be done to help street children?
- Why do you think there are so many street children?
- How does living on the street affect children's future?
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