Government targets nationwide expansion of child labour free zones after assessment

The Minister for Labour, Jobs and Employment, Dr Abdul-Rashid Hassan Pelpuo, has declared the results of assessments for three Child Labour Free Zones in the Ashanti and Western North regions, describing the outcome as proof that community-led action can help Ghana eliminate child labour.

Speaking at Kuffuor Camp DA Basic School in the Atwima Mponua District on Tuesday, the minister announced that the Subri-Zonal Council in the Bibiani-Anhwiaso-Bekwai Municipality recorded 77.37 per cent, giving it a Grade C.

The Tano Odumase Area Council scored 87.23 per cent, while the Kuffuor Camp Area Council posted 83.62 per cent. Both areas earned a grade of B.

Dr Pelpuo said the results showed that the Child Labour Free Zones initiative, which is government-owned, government-led, and community-driven, was delivering measurable progress in the fight against child labour.

He said the achievements belonged to the communities, local assemblies and all partners who supported the programme.

He commended the Government of Japan and the Japan International Cooperation Agency, JICA, for their financial and technical support, saying the partnership had strengthened Ghana’s efforts to protect children and build sustainable systems at the community level.

The minister also praised traditional leaders, civil society organisations, district assemblies, child protection structures, farmer groups and private sector partners for their role in the initiative.

He said the assessment should be seen as the beginning of a stronger phase of work, not the end of the journey.

Dr Pelpuo called for the scaling up of the programme across the country and urged partners to deepen their support.

He said the next round of assessments should push some implementing areas to Grade A, adding that this would require stronger coordination, sustained investment and continued community ownership.

He said every child removed from child labour and returned to education and protection represented progress for the country.

Dr Pelpuo added that Ghana must continue working until every child can grow and learn in a safe environment. He officially declared the assessment results of the three Child Labour Free Zones.