“The RESET project draws from and builds on the lessons and good practices of the preceding 2020 PROSPER-Umoja project and has objects which are consistent with those of the National Strategy on child labour." Shares project director at TDFT, Dick Mlimuka.
This year ECLT has launched the exit phase of the PROSPER project in Tanzania to address the root causes of child labour focusing on building capacity and collaboration for sustainability. Implemented by national partners, TDFT and TAWLAE, the exit phase, PROSPER/RESET, draws upon the learnings from the findings of the external independent evaluation, to build enhanced model for sustainable action to fight child labour.
The RESET project sets itself apart from previous ECLT programmes in Tanzania by driving forward long-lasting inclusive economic growth through full and productive employment and decent work for all. Strengthening existing child protection systems and building the capacity of actors on the ground are at the core of the programmes activities, laying out the foundation for local ownership and sustainable development. Over the next 2 years, the project aims to reach over 1,500 children, farmers and families, 500 parents and guardians will be supported to increase household income and livelihoods, 300 women will be trained in new farming technologies and business skills, and 17 Child labour committees will be trained on child protection systems.
Building capacity
The ECLT Foundation is committed to working with young people in agricultural communities where tobacco is grown, to build capacities and job skills relevant to local markets, helping them secure decent work. Agriculture is a major driver of employment worldwide, but is also one of the three most hazardous sectors, along with mining and construction. Young people working on farms need to understand how to mitigate the risks of certain types of work, like using sharp tools or farm chemicals, which are inappropriate for children under 18 years old. To get ahead, they also need business skills and better farming techniques, which allow them to grow several crops and have better yields. Model Farm Schools and Village Savings and Loan associations will receive training on appropriate technologies and alternative practices in family farms. These trainings will improve productivity, improve farming methods, introduce crop diversity, and finally teach safer practices and protective measures.
Strengthening systems
The National Plan of Action to End Violence Against Women and Children (2017/18 – 2021/22) and the National Strategy on Elimination of Child Labour 2018-2022 identify some critical areas for action in the fight from child labour. Building from these and in support of the efforts by the national Government, the PROSPER/RESET project aims to strengthen the child labour referral, response and reporting system at district, regional and national levels. Such an approach goes beyond simple supply chains to ensure that children are not falling between the gaps into child labour in another crop or industry. The new project will train community and district committees on monitoring, referral and reporting procedures in support of existing Governmental efforts.
Economic empowerment
When families have stable, diversified incomes, parents can send their children to school, rather than to help on the family farm. The project will foster money management and business skills through local village savings and loan associations, which aim to give rural families the necessary skills to manage their finances in difficult times of the year. Poor harvests, illness or natural disasters can put a strain on farmers and families. By saving and loaning locally, parents can invest and expand their incomes to build household funds and keep their children in school all year round.
For more information on our work in Tanzania, check out our latest factsheet!