World Vision Ghana (WVG), in partnership with the Wa East District Assembly, has inaugurated a Children’s Parliament in the district, with a call for intensified efforts to combat child labour and trafficking.
The event formed part of activities marking the 2026 World Day Against Child Labour, observed on the theme: “Red Card to Child Labour: Fair Play for Children, Decent Work for Adults.”
The initiative was undertaken in recognition of the adverse effects of child labour and trafficking on children’s holistic development, as they deprive children of education, expose them to abuse, and limit their future opportunities.
In a speech read on his behalf, Mr Sergious Before, Wa Cluster Manager of World Vision Ghana, emphasised that every child deserved access to quality education, protection, and a safe environment to grow and thrive.
He identified poverty, limited access to quality education, and negative cultural practices as key drivers of child labour, particularly in farming and illegal mining activities.
Mr Before urged stakeholders, including traditional and religious leaders, to collaborate to protect children from exploitation and ensure they remained in school.
He said WVG continued to implement interventions in education, child protection, livelihoods, and water provision to improve children’s well-being and reduce child labour.
He described the Children’s Parliament as a vital platform that would empower children to express their views and actively participate in decisions affecting their welfare and development.
Mr Clement Mol, Wa East District Officer of the Department of Social Welfare and Community Development, also called for strengthened collaboration among stakeholders to eliminate child labour and safeguard children’s rights.
He noted that child labour remained a major threat to children’s education, health, and overall development, as many children in the district were denied schooling and exposed to exploitation.
Mr Mol further emphasised the need to create decent employment opportunities for parents, stating that poverty and limited livelihood options were major contributors to child labour.
Mr Adamu Sayibu, the Wa East District Chief Executive, commended World Vision Ghana for the initiative, noting that the Children’s Parliament would inspire children to stay in school.
He said the intervention should serve as a wake-up call for all stakeholders to fulfil their responsibilities towards child protection.
“Child labour remains one of the greatest threats to the future of our children,” he added.
During proceedings, Mr Yahaya Mumuni Abdul Raman, Wa East District Director of Education, presented a statement on challenges affecting quality education in the district.
He cited inadequate school infrastructure and insufficient teaching and learning materials as key factors undermining educational outcomes.
The event brought together traditional and religious leaders, district officials, teachers, and parents to advocate the protection and welfare of children.
Participants pledged their commitment to ending child labour and creating a safer environment where children could enjoy their rights, remain in school, and develop to their full potential.
GNA
