By Mzukona Mantshontsho
What drew you to child labour activism?
Apart from seeing children who labour and understanding that lack of education keeps children as labourers, I see child labour as an issue that affects the lives of many children in Africa. Look at this; about 152 million children in the world are victims of child labour, 72.1 million of them are in Africa. In 2021 I hosted the dialogue on how individuals can take action to prevent and eliminate child labour in their communities with the support of the African Union (AU) and the International Labour Organisation (ILO) office for Africa, through its accelerating action for the Elimination of Child Labour in Supply Chains in Africa (ACCEL Africa) project, and my foundation, the Stacey Fru Foundation.
What do you want to see as a solution to child labour in Africa in general?
It is so sad for me because I believe that future of the continent depends on children. Everybody has a chance to make an impact on the issue of child labour, no matter how big or small, there is a child out there who needs you. I want to see everybody involved in the fight to End Child Labour. I want to see governments, international organizations, civil society and individuals taking action.
What are you working on to change the narrative and picture of child labour?
The Stacey Fru Foundation’s vision is, “Growing up, growing minds” and its value is “Impacting the best,” As it motivates and empowers community members and educate them on Child Labour. I am working on education.
What can we expect from you going forward?
My plea is to Play-Our-Part to end Child Labour. I am seeking partnerships with Governments, international organizations, civil society and individuals to End Child Labour in order to brighten the future of children.
