Child labour is still common in Malawi, especially on farms and in homes. Many people see it happen but do not know how to report child labour in Malawi. This guide gives you clear, simple steps to follow.

Quick Answer: How to Report Child Labour in Malawi

Call the toll-free Tithandizane Child Helpline on 116, or report to your nearest police station or Victim Support Unit. You can also contact the Ministry of Labour or your District Social Welfare Office. Reports can be made anonymously.

What Counts as Child Labour in Malawi

Malawi’s Employment Act sets the minimum working age at 14 years. Children under 18 cannot do hazardous work, such as farm work with chemicals or heavy machinery.

Work done in private homes falls outside some of these protections. This gap means many child domestic workers face risks without full legal cover. If a child’s work stops them going to school, harms their health, or puts them in danger, it is child labour.

Steps to Report Child Labour in Malawi

Step 1: Put the child’s safety first

If a child is in immediate danger, act to get them to safety before anything else. Do not confront an abuser alone, as this can be unsafe for you and the child.

Step 2: Note down the key details

Write down what you saw, where it happened, and when. Include the child’s name and age if you know them, and the employer’s name or location.

Step 3: Call the Tithandizane Child Helpline on 116

This toll-free helpline is run by YONECO and works every day, all day. Trained counsellors will guide you through the next steps and can involve the right authorities.

Step 4: Report to the police or a Victim Support Unit

Visit your nearest police station, or call the toll-free crime line on 0800 990 997. You can also dial 997 or 990 in an emergency. Police Victim Support Units handle child abuse and child labour cases with care.

Step 5: Contact the Ministry of Labour

The Ministry’s Child Labour Unit and district labour offices investigate child labour complaints. Reach the Ministry of Labour on +265 (0)1 773 277 or by email at labour@labour.gov.mw.

Step 6: Tell your local leaders or Social Welfare Office

Village heads, Community Child Protection Workers and District Social Welfare Offices can step in at community level. They often work alongside the police and the Ministry of Labour.

Step 7: Ask about follow-up support

One Stop Centres and Children’s Corners offer counselling and support to child labour survivors. Ask the helpline or police officer where the nearest centre is.

Why Reporting Child Labour in Malawi Matters

A single report can move a child out of harm and into school. Silence lets the same harm continue, often for years.

CRIDOC works to document child labour cases and share reliable information on children’s rights across Malawi. Read more on the CRIDOC homepage or learn about the organisation’s work on the About CRIDOC page.

Now you know how to report child labour in Malawi, use these steps if you ever see a child at risk. A quick call can change a child’s life.