Joining Forces for Africa (JOFA) Initiative Launched to Eradicate Child Labor in Malawi
The project specifically targets the eradication of child labour in several African countries, including Malawi.
Lilongwe, Malawi - In a collaborative effort, Save the Children and various partners have unveiled the Joint Forces for Africa (JOFA) project, a significant initiative aimed at advocating for the promotion, respect, protection, and fulfilment of child rights globally, writes Judgement Katika.
The project specifically targets the eradication of child labour in several African countries, including Malawi.
Ashebir Debebe, the Country Director for Save the Children, explained that JOFA seeks to address the root causes of child labour, focusing on community and national levels to create policies and legislation that will effectively eliminate this issue.
The European Union (EU), represented by Ambassador Rune Skinnebach, emphasised its commitment to protecting human rights, especially those of vulnerable populations such as children.
The EU is a primary donor for the implementation of the JOFA project and underscores its values in championing child rights.
Skinnebach expressed optimism about the project's potential to eradicate the root causes of child labour by raising awareness among communities, legislators, parents, and schools, providing vital information on how to end child labour and alleviate poverty.
Kayira, Principal Secretary for the Ministry of Labour, highlighted the government's dedication to abolishing child labour.
He mentioned amendments to the Employment Act that emphasise the prohibition of hazardous work for children beyond their appropriate age.
Mwape Mulumbi, Country Director for Plan International Malawi, stressed the urgent need to combat child labour in the country, where the number of children involved in such labour is notably high.
JOFA is expected to have a positive impact by empowering communities to monitor and protect children's rights.
The JOFA project extends beyond Malawi, with implementation in three other African countries: Madagascar, Mali, and Burkina Faso. In Malawi, the initiative will target 400,000 people in the districts of Lilongwe and Mchinji.
The Joining Forces Alliance (JOFA) initiative began in 2017, with six prominent organisations dedicated to children's rights and welfare joining forces.
These organisations include ChildFund Alliance, Plan International, Save the Children International, SOS Children’s Villages International, Terre des Hommes International Federation, and World Vision International.
Together, they aim to make a significant impact on the global effort to eliminate child labour and protect children's rights.
The JOFA initiative demonstrates a strong commitment to securing a brighter and safer future for children across Africa.