Mzimba Children Laud NGO for Rescuing Them from Child Labour
Inkosi Khosolo issued a stern warning to communities, highlighting the collective responsibility to protect children from exploitation.
MZIMBA, Malawi- Children from Traditional Authority Khosolo have expressed gratitude towards the Impact Centre for Economic and Development (ICEED) for liberating them from the shackles of child labour, writes Lumbani Kaunda.
These children, formerly employed in coffee and tea estates, now celebrate a new beginning as they embark on vocational training, courtesy of ICEED's intervention.
"I had dropped out of school and ventured into a coffee estate to escape poverty," said 17-year-old James Longwe from Lunkhumba Village.
Similarly, Anile Banda, who was forced to abandon her education in Standard Six due to financial constraints, found herself toiling in a coffee estate for two years.
However, ICEED's intervention not only rescued them from exploitation but also equipped them with vocational skills, paving the way for a brighter future.
Elvin Kalomba, the Project Officer at ICEED, shed light on the "Accelerating action in the elimination of child labour (ACCEL)" project, aimed at rescuing vulnerable children from the grips of child labour.
"By providing vocational training, ICEED aims to break the cycle of poverty driving children into hazardous work environments," Kalomba explained.
Francis Kwenda, Chief Labour Officer in the Ministry of Labour, emphasized the persisting challenge of child labour in Malawi, attributing it to widespread poverty.
"Despite concerted efforts from the government, international organizations like the International Labour Organization (ILO), and various NGOs, child labour remains a pressing issue, with statistics indicating a concerning 38 percent prevalence rate," Kwenda said.
Yamikani Nyalugwe, the Mzimba District Youth Officer, lauded ICEED and ILO for empowering youths with vocational skills, enabling them to chart their paths towards independence and self-reliance.
"This empowerment not only rescues children from exploitation but also cultivates a generation of skilled individuals capable of contributing meaningfully to society," Nyalugwe stated.
Inkosi Khosolo issued a stern warning to communities, highlighting the collective responsibility to protect children from exploitation.
"Promising punitive measures against community members found complicit in child labour practices, Inkosi Khosolo underscores the urgency of collective action in safeguarding the rights of children," he said.
The testimonies of James, Anile, and countless other rescued youths underscore the transformative impact of initiatives like ICEED's ACCEL project.
As Malawi continues its battle against child labour, collaboration between government entities, NGOs, and local communities remains imperative in ensuring a future where every child enjoys the right to education, safety, and dignity.