The Integrated Business Establishment Survey I (IBES I) has exposed a disturbing reality that over 2,000 children aged 10-14 are operating mobile businesses in Ghana, mostly as employees for business owners.
This is not just a statistic; it is a wake-up call. We cannot ignore the long-term trend. It is time for policymakers, stakeholders, and communities to act and ensure access to education, enforce child labour laws, and provide support for vulnerable families.
Ghana’s child labour regulations are clear: children under 15 can’t be employed in any work, and those aged 13-14 can only do light work that doesn’t harm their health, development, or education. Yet, the reality on the ground shows we’re falling short.
As stated in Article 28(2) of the 1992 Ghanaian Constitution, “Every child has the right to be protected from work that constitutes a threat to his health, education or development.”
It is clear that we need to take concrete actions to ensure these children are protected from potential exploitation.
Let’s work together to create a safer environment for Ghana’s children.
