CHILD LABOUR IN CAMEROON'S ARTISANAL GOLD MINING SECTOR: A CRITICAL APPRAISAL OF LEGAL FRAMEWORKS

Abstract

Child labour in artisanal gold mining is a persuasive issue in Cameroon, with far-reaching consequences for the health, education, and well-being of children. Despite the existence of national and international laws prohibiting child labour, the practice remains widespread in Cameroon’s gold mining sector. This study critically examines the legal frameworks governing child labour in artisanal gold mining in Cameroon to assess their effectiveness in preventing child labour and identifying gaps that hinder enforcement. Using a doctrinal research approach, this study analyses national and international laws, regulations, and policies governing child labour in artisanal mining, complemented by a specific case of child labour in artisanal gold mining in Cameroon. The findings reveal that Cameroon’s legal frameworks, including the Labour and Mining Codes, are inadequate in preventing child labour in artisanal gold mining due to weak enforcement mechanisms, lack of clarity, and inadequate penalties for non-compliance. The study also finds that the lack of access to education and poverty are significant drivers of child labour in artisanal gold mining. The study recommends strengthening the legal frameworks governing child labour in artisanal gold mining, including increasing penalties for non-compliance, improving access to education, and enhancing enforcement mechanisms. The government should establish a special task force to monitor and enforce laws on child labour in artisanal mining and to support artisanal miners in transitioning to formal, regulated operations.