Deputy Minister of Employment, Jomo Sibiya, conducted surprise inspections on farms in Potchefstroom yesterday ahead of the National Day Against Child Labour. The inspections revealed widespread exploitation of farmworkers, including minors, and uncovered a syndicate targeting undocumented foreign nationals.
Child Labour and Exploitation Rife in Northwest Province
During the operation, Sibiya highlighted the alarming prevalence of child labour in the agricultural sector, particularly in rural areas. “The North West Province is one of our biggest concerns,” he stated. Inspectors narrowly missed intercepting a truck allegedly transporting undocumented workers after farm owners were tipped off about the raid.
Sibiya emphasized the need for stronger enforcement, awareness, and coordination between government departments—including Labour, Social Development, and Education—to combat the crisis. “Child labour is often disguised in rural settings, but exploitation remains a severe violation,” he said.
Awareness and Enforcement Key to Eradicating Child Labour
The National Day Against Child Labour event, part of an International Labour Organization (ILO) campaign, aims to educate employers and communities while enforcing penalties for violations. North West MEC for Agriculture, Mod Sambata, stressed that repeat offenders would face legal action.
“Employers knowingly hiring children must be penalized,” Sambata said. “Awareness comes first, but enforcement is critical.”
As the event commenced, children’s voices filled the tent with songs—a poignant reminder of the young lives at stake. Deputy Minister Sibiya is set to deliver the keynote address, reinforcing the government’s commitment to ending child labour.