The issues related to the living and working conditions of domestic workers remain complex in Africa: low and at times non-existent wages, long working hours, little if any leave, violence in various forms, job insecurity, lack of written contracts, etc.
Children and young people involved in domestic work are particularly vulnerable and are exposed to many abuses. They are usually school drop-outs due to poverty and their occupation. Their prospects to reintegrate the classic education system or vocational training are limited. Domestic workers, hidden behind walls, are described as “invisible workers”. They receive little if any attention from their authorities. Domestic work is considered, in some situations, as modern slavery
History
Since 2010, several organizations member of the IDAY network raised their concerns about this issue and the East African members decided to launch a collective regional campaign.
Thanks to the financial support of the European Union, a broad regional project was set up for a duration of 3 years (2014-2016). The project is active in 5 countries: DRC, Burundi, Rwanda, Uganda and Kenya.
Next phase
Total costs are 1.209.704 €, financed by the European Union and co-financed by other donors; a balance of 150.000 € are still being sought.
A second phase project is being elaborated in order to develop literacy and professional training for the millions of domestic workers identified by the first phase of the project.
