Eradication of child labour and exploitation

Written by Yvonne Misando.

Child labour is a serious issue that affects millions of children around the world. It refers to work that deprives children of their childhood, potential, and dignity, and that is harmful to their physical or mental development. This includes work that is dangerous, interferes with their schooling, or forces them to leave school prematurely. Sadly, many children are caught in this cycle of exploitation because their families are struggling with poverty.

The International Labour Organization (ILO) and UNICEF’s joint report “Child Labour: Global Estimates 2020, Trends and the Road Forward.” states that ..Globally, approximately 160 million children are engaged in child labour, with about 63 million girls and 97 million boys affected. Alarmingly, nearly half of these children—around 79 million—work under hazardous conditions. In Sub-Saharan Africa, the situation is particularly dire, with the highest number of child labourers at about 86.6 million. This region faces significant challenges, including economic hardship and limited access to education, which perpetuate the cycle of child labour.

In Kenya, child labour is also a pressing issue. Many children work in agriculture, domestic service, and informal sectors. The lack of resources and educational opportunities forces families to rely on their children’s income for survival. As a result, many children miss out on school and the chance to build a brighter future.

Efforts to combat child labour and exploitation are underway globally and locally. Organizations like the International Labour Organization (ILO) work tirelessly to raise awareness and implement programs aimed at eliminating child labour. They advocate for policies that protect children’s rights and promote education as a fundamental right for every child. In Kenya, community leaders and NGOs are collaborating to create safe learning environments and provide support for families so they do not have to depend on their children’s earnings.

 The United Nations has designated June 12 as World Day Against Child Labour, a time to reflect on the plight of young workers deprived of their childhoods and to promote initiatives that aim to end this practice. By spreading awareness and encouraging communities to prioritize education over child labour, we can help create a world where every child has the opportunity to learn, play, and dream without the burden of work.