By Juliet Korkor
The Coaltar District Court, after its inauguration, will start prosecuting perpetrators of child labour in the Ayensuano District of the Eastern Region.
This will help enforce the assembly bye-laws and fast-track the prosecution of those who subject their children to all forms of abuse to make ends meet for their families.
The Ayensuano District Chief Executive, Josephine Anssah Awuku Inkoom, disclosed this at the World Day against Child Labour at Ntowkrom in the Ayensuano District of the Eastern Region.
According to her, the emerging trend of underage children engaging in the okada business must be discouraged, and this can only be achieved when perpetrators of this act are arrested and prosecuted.
“The emerging trend of under-aged children engaged in ‘okada’ business because of its lucrative nature can also not be overlooked. To remedy the situation, the assembly, in collaboration with the District Police Command will soon begin an intensive operation to arrest children engaged in the act and their parents,” she noted.
Speaking on the global theme for the World Day Against Child Labour “Protecting Children Against Child Labour Now More Than Ever”, the Eastern Regional Minister indicated that eradication of child labour in the country will ensure that every child is given the chance to enjoy their childhood and pursue their dreams, which will aid them to contribute towards the country’s development justifiably.
A representative from the Ghana Employers Association, Kingsley Laar, stressed the need for government and stakeholders to intensify the fight against child labour to help protect and secure the future of children in the country.