Child Labour and Human Trafficking
Strengthening Collaboration Against Child Labour and Human Trafficking"
On February 22nd, 2024, the ILO CAPSA Project Team, together with the Directorate of Children’s Services – Kajiado and esteemed project partners such as the African Network for the Prevention and Protection Against Child Abuse (ANPPCAN Organization) and Awareness Against Human Trafficking (HAART Kenya), convened a significant meeting with Ms. Judy Pere, the County Executive Committee Member (CECM2) for Public Service, Social Services, Citizen Participation, and Inspectorate Services, in Kajiado.
22 February 2024
Showcasing Initiatives for Child Welfare
The meeting provided a platform to showcase various programs undertaken by the County Government of Kajiado and initiatives by child protection stakeholders aimed at addressing child labour, human trafficking, and forced labour within the county. Notable among these initiatives is the county government's drive to develop day care facilities in Namanga, designed to alleviate the care burden on working mothers and safeguard children from harm. Additionally, the impending launch of the Disability Mainstreaming Program in February 2024 reflects the county's commitment to inclusive child welfare practices.
Gratitude for Collaborative Efforts
Ms. Pere expressed her gratitude to the ILO CAPSA Project for the fruitful partnership in addressing child labour and human trafficking in Kajiado County since 2021. The collaborative efforts have significantly contributed to advancing child protection initiatives within the county.
Empowering Partnerships for Sustainable Change
Since 2021, the CAPSA project has worked closely with various stakeholders, including the Directorate of Children’s Services, the labour office, the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions, key national and county government agencies and departments, employers’ organizations, and trade unions. CAPSA implements project interventions in Kajiado through ANPPCAN and HAART Kenya.
Advancing Policy and Action
Mr. Cosmas Karera, Assistant Director of Children’s Services in Kajiado, expressed optimism about the ongoing partnership, anticipating the development of a comprehensive child protection policy by the end of the year. Ms. Grace Banya, ILO CAPSA Project Manager, emphasized the urgency of addressing prevalent violations, such as sand and stone harvesting and quarrying.
Future Collaborative Opportunities
In 2024, CAPSA will continue to support the county government and stakeholders in Kajiado to finalize the draft Kajiado County Policy on Child Protection. Technical assistance will be provided to the Kajiado County Children’s Advisory Committee (CCAC) and a dedicated sub-committee focused on addressing child labour and human trafficking. Both committees are slated to convene in March 2024, signalling a concerted effort towards comprehensive child protection strategies in the region.
The collaborative efforts between the ILO CAPSA Project and Kajiado County exemplify a shared commitment to safeguard children's rights and ensuring a future free from exploitation and harm.
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