The study on Child Trafficking and the Worst Forms of Child Labor in Kambia, Sierra Leone provides a detailed baseline analysis aimed at understanding the prevalence, causes, and community perspectives on child trafficking in this district. Conducted in 2021 by the African Programming and Research Initiative to End Slavery (APRIES), in collaboration with CMDA-SL, the study employed mixed methods, combining household surveys, in-depth interviews with survivors and stakeholders, and focus group discussions with community members.
Key findings reveal a high prevalence of child trafficking in Kambia, with an estimated 33.5% of children aged 5-17 having experienced trafficking within the last year. This prevalence aligns closely with other regions in Sierra Leone, confirming child trafficking as a widespread issue. The study also highlights significant community awareness of trafficking, although many local responses are hindered by social and economic barriers. The qualitative insights emphasize vulnerabilities such as poverty, lack of education, and informal foster care, with children being exploited in sectors such as domestic work, agriculture, and portering.
The study also identifies substantial gaps in local policies and services aimed at addressing trafficking, with a strong call for improved enforcement of anti-trafficking laws, expanded educational opportunities, and community-driven interventions. The findings underscore the need for enhanced support for survivors and better resource allocation to prevent further exploitation, making this research an essential tool for informing policy and action on child trafficking in Sierra Leone.