Forty-six students in Nairobi’s Kenyatta University of Law attended a screening of 'Selling Children' last month by our Kenyan partner Under Our Skin, with students between 17 to 26 years old in attendance. 

Under Our Skin International Film Festival on Human Rights connects with schools, community halls and deprived neighbourhoods all over Kenya to host screenings and debates, promoting education on issues affecting local communities.

In Kenya, children are trafficked into various forms of forced labor, including domestic service, agriculture, fishing, cattle herding, street vending, begging, and even child prostitution.

'Selling Children' provided the foundation for the school’s club Wakili Wa Watoto KUSoL (loosely translated to Children's Advocates) to discuss the Kenyan Constitution in relation to children - specifically the provisions in the Constitution of Kenya 2010, the Children’s Act 2022, and the Counter Trafficking in Persons Act, all of which address child trafficking. 

Post-screening discussions brought some diverse opinions and perspectives. Third-year student Hamisi Ombasa commented:

‍ "A significant contributing factor to modern slavery and child trafficking is poverty. The government therefore has a vital role in addressing these issues, such as ensuring affordable access to education and implementing incentives like school food programs, which will encourage parents to send their children to school, consequently contributing to a better future. A strong educational foundation for children is also essential in raising informed, empowered future generations". 

One of the club officials, Mercy, emphasised the crucial role of the media in education and awareness. “This film we are watching offers a different approach to learning compared to our usual methods," she said, 'Through it, we gain insights into social issues, increasing our awareness that these problems exist."

The screening also sparked reflections on attendees' educational journeys, leading to an appreciation of their privilege. Education was highlighted as a vital tool for breaking the cycle of child trafficking, offering a brighter future.