Throughout Africa and much of the world, ‘child’ is defined as a person who has not reached adulthood. Most would agree that all children deserve to grow up as kids and enjoy their youth before being burdened with responsibility that comes with adulthood.

If we could start the world again, maybe all children would be carefree while gaining a valuable education with their friends. However, we cannot start the world again and there are children in the world that simply do not experience what it is like to be a child. Sadly, this problem is dangerously common within a good part of Africa.

To help support their families, children must work in conditions that are appalling and unfair. In Sub-Saharan Africa, nearly 60 million children between the ages of 5-17 are doing the worst forms of hazardous work [1]. According to the International Labour Organization (ILO), over 20% of these children are working in mines, quarries, and farms against their will [1].

Currently, there is huge debate as to whether this is a form of child slavery. Some children aren't even paid. Why is this still happening? Without education, there is little hope that future generations of children will not also need to work for money.

Over the years, Develop Africa has created numerous projects to give children the opportunities they deserve, like a chance for a basic education. As a recent example, there were many scholarships offered to boys and girls that attended Freetown primary and secondary schools [2]. With these scholarships, children had an opportunity to do something that we so often take for granted - learn. With the success of these projects, Develop Africa has introduced many more projects within Africa to help communities and start the educational reforms that have been required for so long.

By supporting Develop Africa, you will be doing your part to make a difference in this noble mission. It is a great feeling to know that you are enriching a child’s life and ensuring them a better future. Not only will you be help kids achieve a better future, you will also help families give their children what they desire most - a childhood!

By Shreya Thirumurthy​

Sources

[1] Kelly, Annie. "Child Labour Is Part of Most of What We Buy Today: What Can We Do?" The Guardian. Guardian News and Media, 24 Nov. 2016. Web. 25 Nov. 2016.

[2] "Scholarships Given in Sierra Leone." Develop Africa. N.p., n.d. Web. 27 Dec. 2016.