Gender dimensions in the worst forms of child labour In Kenya: a case of Thika West District
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Date
2013-11-13
Authors
Karanja, Elizabeth Muhito
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Abstract
This study aimed at gaining an in-depth understanding of gender dimensions in the worst
forms of child labour in Thika west District in Kiambu County. The purpose of the study
was to examine the relationship between factors, gender dimensions and children's
involvement in worst forms of child labour. The study sought to establish how these
dimensions exist in an endeavour to suggest solutions that can have a greater impact in
the fight against worst forms of child labour. The study was based on the following
objectives: To identify the worst forms of child labour prevalent in Thika West District; to
identify and analyze the gender dimensions in the worst forms of child labour; and to
suggest effective strategies of curbing the worst forms of child labour. The study adopted
a descriptive survey approach. The target population was all children in Thika West
District aged of 5 - 17 years since all children in this age group are vulnerable to child
labour. The researcher purposively selected two locations for this study, namely,
Biashara and Juja locations. Out of the 180 sample size, 123 respondents returned the
questionnaires giving a total of 68.3% response rate in the 2 locations sampled through
stratified sampling of low socio-economic status, population density and prime area of
child labour opportunity. The data collection instruments used in this study was
questionnaires, interview schedules and observation checklists. The interview schedule
was administered to 3 Key informants who included a social worker attached to Kiandutu
slum, the Thika West District Children's Officer (DCO) and Juja Location Chief. The
study also used structured observation by focusing on a small number of specific
behaviour patterns among children involved in child labour. Data collected were
subjected to qualitative and quantitative analysis with quantitative analysis done using the
Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). During data collection, the researcher
followed all ethical codes and regulations. The results of the study indicate that there is
prevalent Worst Forms of Child Labour in Thika West district affecting both boys and
girls, a majority aged between 5-17 years. The study also found that there were
significant dynamic changes in gender roles especially by parents and guardian and this
has also influenced boys and girls in their choice of work. Gender socialization clearly
influenced boys and girls in their way of life, experiences and expectations. Other factors
found to be at playing included economic hardships, poverty and dynamic changes in the
family setup which has resulted in single parent families especially headed by women,
orphanage as well as street families. In order to curb the worst forms of child labour,
there is urgent need to address the economic situation for the majority of the parents in
the area who live below the poverty level. This can be achieved by funding economically
viable project, equitably distributing resources especially financial as well as providing
equitable opportunities to both men and women in the area. Parents should be educated
on the need to send their children to school, giving both boys and girls equal
opportunities to access and benefit from education. The government should ensure that
children's rights are protected and especially the rights of orphans and other vulnerable
children. The study recommends that a situational analysis should be done across the
country to establish the extend and effects of worst forms of child labour since according
to the findings of the study, the future projection shows that the region will be adversely
affected in its social and economic development. This in turn will affect the development
agenda of the country and especially the achievement of vision 2030.