Scaling up the fight against child labour as Action Against Child Labour (AACL) project concludes

“We must end child labour now. Children’s rights cannot wait.” 

This clarion call echoed through the closing ceremony of the Action Against Child Labour (AACL) project in Busia, Kenya. Convened by Terre des Hommes Netherlands (TdH NL) and Investing in Children and their Societies (ICS-SP), the event marked the culmination of a three and half-year strategic initiative dedicated to dismantling the systems that exploit children.

The ceremony, held on January 27th, 2026 at the Breeze Hotel in Busia, brought together 96 stakeholders, including senior government officials from both Kenya and Uganda, parents and caregivers, educators, community facilitators, private sector players, media and civil society organizations.

Government commitment and policy milestones

Speaking at the event, Busia County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Sports, Youth, Culture, Gender Affairs, and Social Services, Mr. Paul Olunga, lauded the project’s tangible impact.

“Sand harvesting cases in Teso North and children involved in fishing in Budalangi have declined. This is a result of our collaboration to end child labour, and for that, we are grateful,” Olunga stated.

He further highlighted the 2025 launch of the Busia County Children’s Policy, a landmark framework developed with TdH NL support. However, he issued a challenge to the room: 

“Implementation remains a gap. We must work together as stakeholders to ensure this policy achieves its intended purpose.”

Mr. Philip Nzenge, Head of Strategic Intervention at the State Department for Children Services, emphasized the complexity of the cross-border context. 

“Child labour thrives where systems are weak. At the border, we protect all children regardless of their origin. We must build systems so strong they leave no room for child exploitation.”

Pascillisa Barasa, Chief Officer for Gender, Culture, and Social Protection, called for prioritization in implementing the children’s policy. “Violence against children and gender based violence is on the rise in Busia County,” she warned. “It is imperative that all stakeholders unite to address this challenge.” Her call to action was echoed by Deputy County Commissioner (DCC) Leo Amimo.

Magdalene Wanza, Country Director for Terre des Hommes Netherlands, challenged stakeholders to increase their investment in children to ensure every child has the opportunity to dream and flourish.

“As this project officially closes, our collective responsibility does not end,” she noted. “The systems we have built, the referral pathways, community structures and vigilance, and economic groups must be sustained.”

Moureen Ochieng, Programs Coordinator at ICS-SP, added: 

“Child labour is preventable, but it can only be possible if our commitment outlives the funding cycle.”

Voices from the Frontlines

During the panel discussion, speakers shared their experiences and lessons, especially on how the project has transformed the lives of children and communities in Busia. 

“We used to be very harsh with our children. Today, we listen to them and use non-harmful forms of punishment to guide them.” Elizabeth, a caregiver.

“Retention of children in school has improved. Children are now advocates for their own rights; they report issues to school child-rights clubs without fear.” Samuel, a teacher.

“Many parents were subjecting children to hazardous work unknowingly. Family conflicts led to family separation and divorce, forcing children into child labour. By addressing household conflicts and poverty, we have also addressed the root causes of child neglect.” Benna, Community Facilitator.

“We used to stay silent, but today we are active participants in child protection. We know the referral mechanisms and we know where to report abuse.” A parent.

As the project concludes, stakeholders proposed several key strategies for the future, including expanding male engagement, developing adolescent-focused interventions to curb teenage pregnancy (a major driver of child labour), and strengthening community structures to tackle “hidden” exploitation like domestic work and charcoal burning. There was also a collective call to dismantle the social norms that perpetuate these practices.

The ceremony culminated in stakeholders signing a formal commitment to end child labour. 

Project achievements

The three and half year initiative (March 2022 – January 2026), titled “Exposing & Eliminating Child Labour in Busia County,” was implemented by Terre des Hommes Netherlands, ICS-SP, and their partners, with a specific focus on the service sector child labour prevention & response. 

The project successfully supported nearly 16,000 children, ensuring their enrollment in school and significantly improving attendance rates. This was achieved through school reintegration programs, Child Rights Clubs, and targeted mentorship. Over 2,000 parents and caregivers were also trained in positive, non-violent parenting techniques. 

To address the economic root causes of child labour, the project empowered over 18,000 community members to establish savings and livelihood groups, improving household financial stability.

Furthermore, by prioritizing systems strengthening and enforcement, the project engaged over 300 government officials, 600 private-sector partners, and 30 Civil Society Organizations. These collaborations led to joint inspections and more transparent referral pathways, a critical step that has dismantled the conditions allowing child exploitation to thrive.