Why Kenyans and Other Africans in Australia are Sending Their Kids Back Home

African families living in Australia, including Kenyans, have reportedly resorted to sending their kids back to their motherlands due to their involvement in gang violence.

African parents feel this will help the children learn discipline and respect, according to a report by British publication, the Daily Mail. Achol Marial, the vice-chairperson of South Sudanese Community Association Victoria told the Herald Sun that powerless parents felt they had no choice but to send their kids back home.

She indicated that families from South Sudan, Uganda and Kenya were among those repatriating their children to Africa to learn discipline and respect.

“They’re resorting to taking their kids to boarding school. And to be cared for by their grandparents back home. It’s seen as a retreat. It’s like a time-out,” she stated.

She added that most African parents feared that their kids could be swept up by gang violence in Melbourne. Marial noted that she was aware of at least six families who have made the move, including parents to a girl who was going to parties with the wrong crowd.

“Things are stricter back home. There’s no drinking or substance abuse. The schools are quite harsh. The kids have to perform well,” she explained.