An Analysis of ILO Interventions in Combating Child Labour in Zimbabwe's Mining Sector: The Case of Penhalonga (2015-2024))

Abstract

This study explores the impact of the International Labour Organization (ILO) interventions on child labour in Zimbabwe’s mining sector, focusing specifically on Penhalonga. Child labour, especially in high-risk sectors like mining, endangers children's health, well-being, and educational opportunities, perpetuating poverty cycles. The ILO aims to alleviate these conditions through multifaceted interventions, including educational incentives, policy advocacy, community awareness programs, and enhanced law enforcement to improve community attitudes and reduce child labour. An explanatory sequential research design integrates quantitative survey data with qualitative insights from interviews to comprehensively evaluate these interventions’ effectiveness, challenges, and areas for improvement. The target population included community members, local leaders, mining operators, and representatives from the ILO and NGOs, with a total sample of 30 participants for surveys and 15 key informants for interviews. The sampling approach combined stratified random sampling for quantitative data, ensuring representation across community groups, and purposive sampling for selecting knowledgeable informants. Data were collected through structured questionnaires with Likert scale items and semi-structured interview guides, refined through a pilot study to maximize clarity and relevance. Findings suggest a moderate impact of ILO interventions, with educational incentives showing positive effects on school enrolment among former child labourers, though economic challenges continue to affect retention rates. Community awareness programs have influenced public attitudes, promoting a shift in how child labour is perceived, though further community engagement remains essential. Policy advocacy has encouraged proactive behaviour in law enforcement, but limitations in resources and enforcement consistency continue to hinder comprehensive implementation. Overall, while there has been some success in reducing child labour rates, further socio-economic support and enhanced enforcement mechanisms are crucial for sustained improvement. Recommendations include increased resource allocation to law enforcement, expanded community-based monitoring with local volunteer involvement, and enhanced economic incentives through vocational training and financial support for families, providing alternatives to child labour. Additionally, the study suggests fostering partnerships with NGOs and community groups to improve advocacy and strengthen local engagement in anti-child labour initiatives. These combined measures could create a more supportive environment for eradicating child labour in Penhalonga’s mining sector.