Social networks for survival among working children in Addis Ababa

In this article, we examine the social networks that enable working children on the streets of Addis Ababa to cope and exercise agency under adverse circumstances. Based on qualitative interviews with 45 children, we explore how they take part in new and existing social networks. We analyse the work of social networks and explain how they help the individual child to attain physical and economic security, secure living quarters, food supply, and formal and informal schooling. Finally, we discuss to what extent the networks can be considered as social capital for the children.