EDITOR
Rukungiri Municipality has pledged strong support in the fight against child labour following the launch of the Elimination of Child Labour in the Coffee Supply Chain program at the Rukungiri District Council Hall.
The initiative, spearheaded by the Elimination of Child Labour in Agriculture (ECLA) under Executive Director Edie Wambewo, brings together key district stakeholders to combat child exploitation in coffee-growing communities. The intervention will target several sub-counties, including Buyanja, Kebisoni, Nyakishenyi, Nyarushanje, Buhunga, Bwambara, Bugangari, and Ruhinda.
Representing the Municipality, Principal Community Development Officer (PCDO) Mr. Twesigomwe Johnbosco reaffirmed the council’s commitment to the cause. He urged ECLA to intensify grassroots sensitization and collaborate with local structures to ensure sustainable change.
“ECLA must intensify grassroots sensitization efforts and work with our structures to ensure lasting impact,” he said, pledging full municipal support, especially within urban and peri-urban communities.
The program seeks to tackle hazardous child labour practices such as the use of chemicals without protective gear, underage domestic work, early marriages, and unsafe sanitation work. It also aims to address root causes like food insecurity, domestic violence, and harsh disciplinary practices, while empowering households through financial access, income management, and keeping children in school.
Closing the launch, Deputy Chief Administrative Officer Mr. Agaba Hillary commended the collaborative effort, emphasizing the importance of protecting children during school holidays when they are most vulnerable to exploitation.
