Community Engagement and Cultural Factors as Determinants of Child Labor Exploitation: The Case of Digeluna Tijo District of East Arsi Zone
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Date
2026-05
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Addis Ababa University
Abstract
Child labor exploitation remains a significant problem in rural communities where poverty and cultural beliefs shape children’s roles. This study examined how community engagement and cultural factors influence child labor exploitation in Digeluna Tijo District, East Arsi Zone, Ethiopia.
A mixed-methods sequential explanatory design was used. Quantitative data were collected from 357 households selected through simple random sampling, while qualitative data were obtained from key informant interviews and focus group discussions using purposive sampling. Data were gathered through questionnaires, interviews and focus group discussion. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation, and multiple regressions in SPSS, while qualitative data were analyzed thematically.
The results showed moderate levels of community engagement, cultural influence, and child labor exploitation. Both community engagement (r = .513) and cultural factors (r = .629) had significant positive relationships with child labor exploitation, with cultural factors having a stronger effect. Regression analysis indicated that these variables explained about 61.8% of the variation in child labor, with cultural norms as the strongest predictor. Qualitative findings revealed that traditions, gender roles, and acceptance of child work, combined with poverty, contribute to the persistence of child labor.
In conclusion, child labor exploitation in the study area is strongly influenced by cultural norms, and community engagement alone is not sufficient to reduce it. Addressing the problem requires culturally sensitive interventions alongside improvements in economic conditions.
Keywords: Child labor exploitation, community engagement, cultural factors
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Keywords
Child labor exploitation, community engagement, cultural factors