Boards of management from nine coffee cooperative societies in Kisii County completed a five-day training program focused on eliminating child labor in coffee-growing communities.
The International Labour Organization organized the training through the ACCEL Africa Project, bringing together leaders from various cooperative societies across the county.
Participants received instruction on cooperative governance, leadership, accountability, transparency and strategies for preventing child labor in coffee supply chains.
ACCEL Project National Project Officer Duncan Chando stated that ending child labor requires empowering farming households economically.
According to Chando, strong and well-managed cooperatives allow farmers to earn better incomes, improve working conditions and reduce the likelihood of children being drawn into farm work.
“This training is important because strong cooperatives help improve the lives of farmers while ensuring children stay in school,” Chando explained.
Stephen Obure, Chairperson of Nyambunde Farmers’ Cooperative Society, noted that the program had provided leaders with a deeper understanding of their role in safeguarding children’s welfare.
“We have learned that good leadership and proper management systems can improve trust among members and also help children remain in school,” he stated.
Elmelda Kausi, Chairlady of Nyamarambe Farmers’ Cooperative Society, indicated that cooperative leaders would now integrate child labor prevention policies into their daily operations.
The initiative represents broader efforts to promote child-labor-free coffee and tea supply chains throughout Kenya.