The African child in kinship care: A systematic review

This study investigates the difference in the well-being of children in kinship care when compared to children in other care settings within Africa, examining factors that are associated with their well-being outcomes. A systematic review was conducted using the PRISMA guidelines. Fourteen databases and websites were searched for empirical studies conducted in Africa between 2000 and 2017. Studies were included if they compared children in kinship care with other care settings. 23 studies were included and retained in the review. The degree of relatedness of carer to the child, socio-economic status of fostering households, gender and age were identified as factors contributing to the well-being of children in kinship care. The degree of relatedness to the caregiver and socio-economic status of the fostering household were the strongest determinants of the well-being of children in kinship care. This review finds that parental care remains the best care setting and should be highly encouraged within African society. However, outside of parental care kinship care is the most sustainable and affordable form of care for children in Africa. The evidence suggests that systems that support the placement of children with close kin members and ensure economic strengthening programs for poor families with children should be supported and put in place by the African governments.