Protecting orphans and vulnerable children in Lesotho: an assessment of the Children’s Protection and Welfare Act, 2011

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: This chapter reviews specific aspects of the Children’s Protection and Welfare Act 2011 of Lesotho, insofar as they pertain to the situation of orphans and vulnerable children. The chapter commences with a brief outline of the context in which the legislation was adopted, including a brief overview of relevant country data. The substantive aspects of the Act pertaining to orphans and vulnerable children are thereafter discussed. Notably provisions relating to non-discrimination, to health, to registration of orphans and vulnerable children, to protection of surviving children’s property and provisions concerning fostering and adoption are featured. Finally an overall assessment of the scheme of the Act in addressing the plight of orphans and vulnerable children is given.