RASC News Agency: Numerous residents of Kandahar province have expressed deep concern over the rising number of child laborers on public streets and roadsides. On Friday, July 6, they told RASC News Agency that the number of young children engaged in hard labor is increasing daily.
Jumagul, a shopkeeper in central Kandahar, observed that hundreds of children are forced into strenuous work due to poverty and deprivation, which keeps them from receiving an education. In this report, a RASC News Agency correspondent successfully interviewed several child laborers, capturing and reflecting their voices.
Samimullah, an 11-year-old child laborer in Kandahar, stated that he burns incense in the province’s markets. He said, “I was imprisoned twice by the Taliban, but I have no choice. My father tells me to go and bring food for the night, and I have no other option.” Reports indicate that, besides Kandahar, the number of child laborers has significantly increased in other provinces as well. These children undertake hard labor to support their families.
It is noteworthy that these concerns have arisen following the Taliban’s takeover of Afghanistan, which has resulted in widespread displacement and job loss. Furthermore, humanitarian aid to those in need has decreased since the Taliban’s rise to power, exacerbating the spread of poverty.
