In a bold step to intensify the fight against child labour in Ghana, the Ministry of Employment and Labour Relations (MELR), through its Labour Department, on Wednesday, June 19, 2025, held a National Durbar at the Methodist M.A. JHS Park in Newtown, Bibiani. The event formed part of activities commemorating this year’s World Day Against Child Labour, under the theme: “Progress is clear, but there’s more to do: let’s speed up efforts!”
The durbar brought together key stakeholders, including traditional leaders, government officials, development partners, civil society organisations, students, clergy, and the general public. The aim was to deepen awareness of child labour issues, celebrate progress made, and renew national commitment to eliminating the menace, particularly in rural and cocoa-growing areas like Bibiani.
Mr. Dauda Ibrahim Braimah, Acting Chief Labour Officer of the Labour Department of the Ministry of Employment and Labour Relations (MELR), emphasized that child labour is any work that restricts a child’s freedom and jeopardizes their future. He explained that the decision to host the program in Bibiani was strategic, as the Ministry is preparing to declare some selected communities as Child Labour Free Zones. He further stated that June 12 has been designated as an annual day for awareness creation, with various activities such as drama and poetry to educate communities on the dangers of child labour.
Mr. Braimah also announced the establishment of Community Protection Agencies (CPA) in the target areas, whose role will include monitoring and reporting child labour practices. These agencies will work closely with parents, schools, and opinion leaders to ensure children are not engaged in exploitative labour, especially during schoo hours.
Delivering a speech on behalf of the Western North Regional Minister, Hon. Suleman Braimah, Acting Chief Director of the Western North Regional Coordinating Council, stated that the region is awaiting formal approval from the Ministry of Employment and Labour Relations (MELR) to declare nine communities in Bibiani-Anhwiaso-Bekwai Municipality as Child Labour Free Zones. He reiterated that this initiative is a priority focus for the region and called for increased education of parents on the long-term consequences of child labour.
Representatives from the Bibiani-Anhwiaso-Bekwai Municipal Assembly were also present to deliver a speech on behalf of the Municipal Chief Executive (MCE). The MCE’s address reaffirmed the Assembly’s full support for the fight against child labour and pledged continued collaboration with the MELR and other stakeholders to protect children’s rights and promote education.
Nana Kwaku Somiah, Chief of Sefwi Ntakam, who spoke on behalf of Ogyeahohor Yaw Gyebi II, Paramount Chief of the Anhwiaso Traditional Council, pledged the commitment of traditional authorities to the fight against child labour. He assured that chiefs would actively engage their communities to understand the importance of child protection and education. He further called on the government and MELR to enforce existing laws to deal with individuals who engage children in exploitative labour practices.
The event featured cultural performances, including drama and poetry by schoolchildren, which powerfully depicted the pain and consequences of child labour. The performances were met with emotional responses from the audience and reinforced the urgency of the message. There was also a choreography session, and prizes were presented to the participating schools as part of efforts to motivate ongoing awareness and advocacy through student engagement. Additionally, the National Steering Committee on Child Labour (NSCCL) donated school supplies to support education in the beneficiary communities.
The program concluded with closing remarks, a vote of thanks, and a final prayer. Dignitaries present included representatives from the Ministry of Employment and Labour Relations (MELR), the Regional Coordinating Council, the Municipal Assembly, traditional authorities, clergy, education officers, and international partners such as UNICEF, ILO, JICA, and the World Cocoa Foundation. Guests later networked over lunch, as discussions continued on practical community-based strategies to end child labour in Ghana.
