Ugandan children: COVID-19 pushes children into child labour
In Uganda, 15 million children are out of school due to the COVID-19 school closure. With the Corona pandemic leading to an unprecedented economic crisis, vulnerable children are at high risk of being pushed into child labour for survival. To mark the World Day Against Child Labour and as part of the the Girls Advocacy Alliance programme, children channeled their concerns and shared their recommendations.
Platform for children’s voices
Terre des Hommes partner Somero Uganda together with the National Children Authority organised a virtual children’s conference ahead of the World Day Against Child Labour (WDACL). In line with the Day’s theme, the impact of the COVID-19 crisis on child labour, the two day event provided children with a platform to raise their voices and call upon policy makers to take action.
Children’s asks
Children representatives from over 10 districts in Uganda presented issues affecting children in their communities. Moderated by the children themselves, these issues were summarised into one document with the children’s advocacy asks. The document was discussed with a panel of policy makers and experts. This led to final advocacy document which will be presented to the Minister of Gender, Labour and Social Development during the official celebration of the World Day Against Child Labour on June the 12th.
“Hear my voice too. Protect children now.”
Watch the footage of the virtual children's conference: