BUSINESSAfrica at the 6th Global Conference on the Elimination of Child Labour
Last month in Marrakech, Morocco, global leaders, employers, workers’ representatives, civil society, and development partners gathered for the 6th Global Conference on the Elimination of Child Labour. The event, hosted by the Government of Morocco, marked a critical moment in the international effort to end child labour in all its forms.

BUSINESSAfrica Employers Confederation was thrilled to take part in the discussions, bringing the voice of African employers to the global stage. For BUSINESSAfrica, the conference was not just another international meeting. It was a call to action.

The conference, organized under the framework of the International Labour Organization, focused on accelerating progress toward Target 8.7 of the Sustainable Development Goals, which calls for the eradication of child labour. Despite global commitments, recent data shows that progress has slowed in many regions, including parts of Africa. That reality shaped the tone of the discussions in Marrakech. The urgency was clear.

Throughout the sessions, delegates examined the root causes of child labour, including poverty, lack of access to quality education, informality in labour markets, and economic shocks. Employers were recognized as key actors in driving solutions, particularly through responsible business practices, supply chain due diligence, and partnerships with governments and communities.

Ms. Jacqueline Mugo, President IOE and Secretary General of BUSINESSAfrica emphasized that eliminating child labour requires practical and coordinated action. Employers across the continent are already implementing workplace policies, strengthening compliance systems, and supporting community initiatives that keep children in school. However, businesses cannot solve the problem alone. An enabling environment is essential. That includes stable economic growth, access to finance for small and medium enterprises, formalization of businesses, and social protection systems that support vulnerable families.

In Marrakech, BUSINESSAfrica also highlighted the importance of supporting the informal economy. Many African enterprises operate informally, where child labour risks are higher and oversight is limited. Transitioning to formality, while protecting jobs and livelihoods, is a crucial step toward sustainable change.

The conference concluded with renewed commitments from governments, employers’ organizations, and workers’ groups to strengthen national action plans and enhance collaboration at regional and global levels. Participants reaffirmed that child labour has no place in modern economies and that decent work for adults is one of the most effective safeguards for children.

For BUSINESSAfrica, the 6th Global Conference was an opportunity to reaffirm its commitment to responsible business conduct and inclusive growth. As African economies continue to grow and integrate into global value chains, employers have a responsibility and an opportunity to lead by example.