Written by Joyce Nzomo
Chief Justice Martha Koome has called for a whole-of-society approach to eliminate child labour in Kenya, stressing that the Judiciary cannot achieve this goal alone.
Speaking in Nairobi on Monday during the official opening of the Employment and Labour Relations Court Annual Symposium (ELRASE III), themed “Elimination of All Forms of Child Labour and Access to Justice,” Justice Koome urged Parliament, the Executive, private sector, civil society, and communities to join forces in protecting children.
“This symposium provides an ideal platform to forge this collective responsibility. By reflecting together, sharing experiences, and co-creating solutions, we move closer to building a Kenya where no child is exploited,” she said.
The CJ emphasized that discussions must translate into concrete actions that safeguard children from exploitation.
She urged participants to strengthen accountability systems, expand access to justice for children, and empower families to ensure children remain in classrooms rather than workplaces.
“Justice for children is justice for society. In protecting their rights, we protect our collective future,” she added, noting that child labour robs children of education, dignity, and opportunities while perpetuating poverty.
Koome also highlighted the pivotal role of the Employment and Labour Relations Court in enforcing labour standards and protecting vulnerable workers.
She pointed out that the Judiciary has already established specialised Children’s Courts and developed the Child Justice Strategy (2023–2030) to provide child-sensitive, dignified legal processes.
CJ Koome concluded by calling on all stakeholders; judges, policymakers, employers, religious leaders, advocates, and citizens to leave the symposium with a renewed commitment to end child labour in Kenya.
