The office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) in Kenya and ILO collaborate to combat child labour

Naivasha, Kenya (ILO News) - Child labour remains one of the most pressing human rights violations, depriving children of their education, health, and future opportunities. In a decisive step toward eradicating this issue, the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) Children Division, in collaboration with the International Labour Organisation (ILO), recently concluded an intensive five-day training program aimed at enhancing the capacity of prosecutors to handle child labour cases effectively.

The training brought together legal professionals from across Kenya, equipping them with the knowledge and tools necessary to prosecute child labour cases, gather critical evidence, and ensure that child victims receive adequate legal protection within the judicial system. Prosecutors from Kericho, Nakuru, Nairobi, Meru, Nyeri, Kisii, Nyamira, and Kirinyaga participated in the program, broadening the reach of these critical skills across multiple regions.

© ILO/Duncan

© ILO/Duncan

This training was part of the broader Accel Africa Initiative—Accelerating Action for the Elimination of Child Labour in Supply Chains in Africa, which seeks to eradicate child labour in all its forms. Child labour remains a serious challenge, particularly in key industries such as agriculture, mining, and domestic work, depriving children of their fundamental rights and opportunities for development. The initiative aligns with the ODPP’s mission to establish a robust legal framework that safeguards children from exploitative labour practices and ensures their rights are upheld.

The training covered a range of essential topics designed to empower prosecutors with both legal and practical expertise. A session led by the Ministry of Labour and Social Protection (MoLSP) provided an in-depth examination of Kenya’s National, Legal, and Policy Framework on Child Labour. Additionally, prosecutors explored best practices in judicial proceedings, including effective prosecution of child labour cases, decision-making processes, and victim support mechanisms.

Sessions on emerging issues tackled critical topics such as online child exploitation, child trafficking, Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), and child marriage. To ensure child-sensitive legal interventions, participants examined alternative justice mechanisms, such as diversion and plea bargaining, which aim to create a more rehabilitative and less punitive legal approach for children affected by labour exploitation.

© ILO/Duncan

© ILO/Duncan

“The passion and commitment demonstrated here will be pivotal in safeguarding children’s rights and eliminating child labour.” Ms. Hellen Rintari, ILO ACCEL Project Coordinator

The training underscored the critical role of prosecutors in tackling child labour and ensuring justice for vulnerable children.

“Child labour not only violates fundamental rights but also hinders children's potential,” she said, advocating for a child-centred approach in the justice system. She called for a multidisciplinary strategy involving prosecutors, law enforcement, social workers, and community organizations to address the issue holistically. Ms. Linda Ndambiri, Head of the ODPP Children Division

With continued collaboration, robust legal frameworks, and proactive enforcement, Kenya is making significant strides toward a child-labour-free future. By strengthening legal capacities, promoting cross-sector partnerships, and enforcing child protection laws, the country is paving the way for a safer and brighter future for all children.