Maseru- World Vision Lesotho has launched a new projectaimed at eradicating child and forced labour in the country. Funded by the European Union (EU), the Acceleration Action for Eliminating Child Labour and Forced Labour (AECFL) initiative will be carried out in collaboration with the Ministry of Labour and Employment, marking a new chapter in the fight against child exploitation.
James Chifwelu, the National Director of World Vision Lesotho spoke at the launch, stating, “Child labour is a reality in Lesotho, driven by poverty and economic pressure. Our aim is to prevent, eliminate, and raise awareness about this grave issue that is depriving children of their rights.”
Despite Lesotho’s beauty and resilience, it is no exception to the global issue of child and forced labour. According to world latest statistics, about 16% of Lesotho’s youth are involved in child labour. Many of these children are forced into demanding and dangerous jobs such as herding animals in harsh weather, domestic work with long hours, or street vending that include activities that do not only risk their health but deprive them of their childhood.
The AECFL project will be rolled out in five districts which are; Berea, Maseru, Mafeteng, Mohale’s Hoek, and Quthing and is set to last two years and six months. The project plans is to initially train 500 community members, with that number growing to 6,000.
‘Mathabang Nkosi, the Project Coordinator portrayed that this fight requires a collective effort from everyone.
“We need to involve not only the government but also communities, legal enforcement, and other stakeholders,”Nkosi stated.
The project aims to empower local communities by training members to become advocates and fighters against child labour. At least 100 young people will be leading activities in their communities, raising awareness and advocating for the rights of children. These young leaders will be central to ensuring that the voices of Lesotho’s youth are heard and respected.
The 2023 report on child labour in Lesotho revealed that children are subjected to the worst forms of exploitation, including commercial sexual exploitation, often tied to human trafficking. Many are forced into dangerous tasks like animal herding, which poses extreme risks to their safety and well-being.
EU Representative Mario Varrenti expressed the EU’s strong stance on this issue, “This is a grave violation of fundamental human rights. It deprives children of their dignity, childhood, and the opportunity to get an education. Child labour traps families in cycles of poverty, and for the EU, eliminating it is key to achieving sustainable development.”
The EU’s involvement in this project highlights the international and community’s role in supporting Lesotho’s efforts to tackle child labour. As Varrenti pointed out, the project is not only about eradicating child labour; it is also about investing in the future of the country.
“Every child deserves a safe, healthy childhood and access to education. By eliminating child labour, we are giving children the chance to break the cycle of poverty and unlock their full potential.”
This project will act as a significant step towards a future where all children in Lesotho are free from exploitation. By promoting education and child rights, the initiative hopes to foster long-lasting change that benefits both the current generation and the next.
Speaking at the event, the Minister of Labour and Employment, Ts’eliso Mokhosi emphasized that the government is deeply committed to creating an environment where every child is protected and valued.
“This is not just about statistics, it’s a call to action. Our commitment as a government will include strengthening legal frameworks to ensure children are comprehensively protected,” Mokhosi said.
To support this, the government plans to review existing laws and introduce new regulations aimed at preventing exploitation.
“We will also enhance reporting mechanisms to empower communities to report incidents of child labour and forced labour,” the minister added.
He also showed that raising awareness is key, and the government will work closely with civil society organizations, educational institutions, and international partners to ensure that this message reaches every corner of the country.
The AECFL project represents hope for children trapped in the cycle of labour and exploitation. Through collaboration between the government, civil society, international organizations, and the communities themselves, Lesotho can envision a future where children are free to learn, grow, and thrive.
As Chifwelu of World Vision Lesotho concluded, “Together, we can break this cycle and create a brighter, more just future for the children of Lesotho.”
