Traders in Rumbek were warned against investing in cheap labour from children.
The Director General for Lakes State Ministry of Labour Makur Mangok told Good News Radio that his Ministry will deal with traders who are taking advantage of the absence of a Labour Act to exploit children.He said whoever employs children under 18 is breaching the law.
Mr Mangok said he ordered his directorate to investigate cases of child labour in Lakes State and take stern action against anyone found investing in cheap labour from children.
Mr Mangok noted that labour laws discourage employment of persons under the age of 18, terming as child labour any work that a child is subjected to do even if she or he wants.
He advised parents to invest in the education of their children.
Mr Mangok pointed out that the Government of Lakes State will not tolerate employment of children.
Those found guilty of employing children will be dealt with accordingly.
The Director General revealed that a committee from the Ministry of Labour is inspecting the working conditions of employees and other labour related aspects in companies and other places of work in Lakes State.