ITUC-Africa Urges Action Against Child Labor in Africa

During the 114th International Labour Conference in Geneva, ITUC-Africa's Secretary General Joel Odigi addressed the pressing issue of child labor, stating that societal acceptance of child labor undermines national development. He highlighted the alarming trend of rising school absenteeism and dropout rates among children in Nigeria and across Africa, which contributes to increased child labor.

Odigi noted that nearly 138 million children are trapped in child labor globally, with Sub-Saharan Africa bearing the greatest burden, accounting for nearly two-thirds of these cases. He called for stronger public education systems, effective enforcement of labor laws, and comprehensive social protection programs to support vulnerable households.

Odigi urged African governments to fully ratify and implement ILO Conventions 138 and 182, which address minimum age for employment and the worst forms of child labor. He also referenced Rwanda's public investment in education as a model for attracting children to school instead of work.