Psychosocial Counselling Supports and the Transformation of Street Children (Aguu) in Northern Uganda

This study aimed to examine whether psychosocial counselling supports the transformation of street children (Aguu) in Northern Uganda. The study was primarily anchored on Behavioural Theory, with Humanistic and Reintegration Theories serving as supporting frameworks. The study adopted a Mixed Methods Research approach, specifically a Convergent Research Design. The quantitative approach used a cross-sectional survey design, while the qualitative approach adopted a phenomenological research design. The target population comprised 12,360 participants, including 11,000 street children, 600 community leaders, 420 cultural leaders, and 340 religious leaders. Using the Krejcie and Morgan (1970) sample size table, 370 street children were selected for the quantitative survey, while 10 community leaders, 10 cultural leaders, and 10 religious leaders were purposively selected for in-depth interviews. Questionnaires and interview guides were used for data collection. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics with SPSS, while qualitative data were analysed thematically. Findings showed a strong and statistically significant positive relationship between psychosocial counselling and the transformation of Aguu (r = 0.784, p < .001, n = 370). Nonetheless, the study revealed to some extent, challenges like inadequate funding, limited rehabilitation facilities, insufficient professional counsellors, negative peer influence, weak family support, and inadequate post-rehabilitation follow-up constrained the effectiveness of psychosocial counselling programmes. The study recommends that the Government of Uganda strengthen collaboration with faith-based organisations and increase funding for psychosocial rehabilitation programmes. The Catholic Church should also strengthen professional psychosocial counselling services, enhance family involvement, and provide continuous psychosocial support and post-rehabilitation follow-up to sustain the transformation and reintegration of Aguu in Northern Uganda. Keywords: Psychosocial Counselling, Street Children, Aguu, Transformation, Rehabilitation, Catholic Church, Northern Uganda