Accra: Dr Abdul-Rashid Hassan Pelpuo, the Minister of Labour, Jobs and Employment, has reiterated Ghana's commitment to ending the menace of child labour.
According to Ghana News Agency, the International Labour Organisation (ILO) defines 'Child Labour' as work that deprives children of their childhood, potential, and dignity, and is harmful to their physical and mental development.
Speaking in Accra at the national launch and colloquium of the 2025 World Day Against Child Labour, Dr Pelpuo highlighted that child labour remains one of the most pressing developmental challenges in Ghana. Approximately two million children, representing 28% of the child population, are involved in child labour, according to the 2021 National Population and Housing Census by the Ghana Statistical Service.
Dr Pelpuo expressed concern over the involvement of many children in hazardous sectors such as agriculture, fishing, domestic work, and the formal sector. He emphasized the government's commitment through the Ministry of Labour, Jobs and Employment to eradicate child labour. Since assuming office, he has committed to implementing drastic, results-oriented policies and programs to build on the successes of his predecessors.
He stressed the need for concrete actions and solutions to address this decade-long issue, noting that Ghana has the necessary laws, policies, and programs in place. The theme for this year's celebration serves as a call to action for all stakeholders to reflect on progress while acknowledging the ongoing exploitation of children globally, including within their communities.
Dr Pelpuo highlighted the remarkable strides made by the government in recent years, driven by a commitment to justice and human dignity. Legislative reforms, policies, and strategic partnerships have significantly contributed to controlling the situation. Key interventions include the development of a national trade plan of actions for child labour elimination and social programs like the Cocoa Enhancement Programme and the Ghana School Feeding Programme.
The government is committed to ensuring that child labour is not part of cocoa production. Dr Pelpuo emphasized the importance of protecting children's futures and supporting their aspirations to develop into useful adults.
Madam Peninnah Adjoa Akuffo, Assistant Manager, Membership Services, Ghana Employers' Association (GEA), acknowledged the critical role of employers in eliminating child labour. The GEA is committed to promoting child-labour-free workplaces through strategic partnerships, awareness, capacity building, and advocacy. The association will continue to advocate for policies that facilitate decent work practices across all sectors, as the future of children depends on this commitment.
