Tensions between child labour narratives and experiences of parents in uganda: a case of Namuwongo in Makyinde Division

Abstract

The study focused on tensions between child labour narratives and experiences of parents in Uganda: a case of Namuwongo in Makindye Division. The study was based on 3 objectives namely to examine the perspectives of parents about the benefits of child labour, to examine the perspectives of parents about the risks faced by children who engage in labour and to examine the perspectives of parents regarding the laws related to child labour. The study was entirely qualitative in nature and it employed anon probability sampling. The study employed in-depth interviews in the data collection process. The study found out that child labour has various benefits to both parents and children and these include Money for personal use as children, 2 Source of money for school fees, Safety and protection for the children, Preparing children for the future,. Keeping children busy and Supplementing on household income. The study findings also indicated various perspectives of parents about the risks faced by children who engage in labour and these included Children being cheated, Moving long distances which is tiresome Children risk learning bad behaviours, Psychological and emotional abuse, Sexual harassment, accidents plus Early and forced pregnancy. The study also revealed various Opportunities that children miss as a result of engaging in child labour and these include Children miss out on some social activities with others and failing to get time for doing school work. The study provided perspectives of parents regarding the laws related to child labour. The study concludes by providing various recommendations to various stake holders.