Child labour is a global problem that affects millions of children around the world. According to the International Labour Organization (ILO), there are an estimated 168 million children engaged in child labour, and the vast majority of them are in developing countries. Of these, Sub-Saharan Africa has the largest proportion of child labourers, with 26 per cent of children aged 5 to 17 years being engaged in child labour.
Sub-Saharan Africa has the Largest Proportion of Child Labourers
The ILO estimates that of the 168 million children engaged in child labour, around 44 million are in Sub-Saharan Africa. This is the highest proportion of any region in the world, with 26 per cent of children aged 5 to 17 years being engaged in child labour. The majority of these children are engaged in hazardous work, such as working in mines, on fishing boats, or in dangerous agricultural activities.
The reasons for this high rate of child labour in Sub-Saharan Africa are complex and varied. Poverty is a major factor, as many families rely on the income generated by their children in order to survive. In addition, the lack of access to education and limited job opportunities for adults also contribute to the problem.
What is Being Done to Combat Child Labour in Sub-Saharan Africa?
In order to combat child labour in Sub-Saharan Africa, a number of initiatives have been implemented. The ILO has launched the Global Initiative on Decent Jobs for Youth, which aims to create job opportunities for young people and reduce the prevalence of child labour. In addition, the African Union has launched the African Child Policy Forum, which works to ensure that the rights of children are respected and protected.
Governments in Sub-Saharan Africa have also taken steps to reduce the prevalence of child labour. In 2018, the African Union launched the African Child Labour Free Initiative, which aims to end child labour in the region by 2025. In addition, many countries have implemented laws and regulations to protect children from exploitation and ensure that they are not engaged in hazardous work.
Child labour is a major problem in Sub-Saharan Africa, with an estimated 26 per cent of children aged 5 to 17 years being engaged in child labour. In order to combat this problem, a number of initiatives have been implemented, including the Global Initiative on Decent Jobs for Youth and the African Child Policy Forum. In addition, governments in the region have implemented laws and regulations to protect children from exploitation and ensure that they are not engaged in hazardous work.
Questions & Answers
Q: What is the largest proportion of child labourers in the world?
A: Sub-Saharan Africa has the largest proportion of child labourers, with 26 per cent of children aged 5 to 17 years being engaged in child labour.
Q: What initiatives have been implemented to combat child labour in Sub-Saharan Africa?
A: The ILO has launched the Global Initiative on Decent Jobs for Youth, and the African Union has launched the African Child Policy Forum. In addition, many countries have implemented laws and regulations to protect children from exploitation and ensure that they are not engaged in hazardous work.
