Concluding Analysis and Recommendations

Abstract

This chapter concludes the discussion that legal guardianship of children is subject to different interpretations when compared to the traditional European model of guardianship. It identifies the vast differences among the guardianship processes in the three countries. It establishes the fact that the differences are distinctive features which are unique to the models of legal guardianship in Côte d’Ivoire, South Africa and Uganda. It concludes the discussion on the recognition of the roles of legal guardians, the need for a simplified process for the appointment of a legal guardian, the African perspective on parenthood and childcare and the role which it plays in the interpretation of legal guardianship. It further deals with the need for some international law regulation on how the guardianship process should be administered in each country. After considering the strengths and weaknesses of the different models, this chapter concludes that the model employed for the guardianship of children in Côte d’Ivoire is the preferred model. It lists the distinctive features of the Côte d’Ivoire model, which place it in the best position to meet the needs of children in need of parental and family care.