Factores sociais associados ao trabalho infantil em Maputo: condições e perspectivas de vida das crianças vendedeiras nos mercados informais: estudo de caso no Mercado Fajardo

Abstract

This research analyses the social factors associated with child labour in the city of Maputo, with emphasis on the living conditions and future prospects of child street vendors in informal markets, taking as a case study the Fajardo Market during the period 2023–2024. The study is developed within the scope of Social Sciences and is based on a qualitative approach, making use of semi-structured interviews, direct observation, and documentary analysis.The general objective of the study is to analyse the social factors that contribute to the entry of children into child labour at Fajardo Market, as well as to understand their living conditions and future prospects.The results show that poverty, family disintegration, and lack of access to quality education are determining factors for the early involvement of children in informal labour. Furthermore, it was found that most child vendors face difficulties in their educational paths and are exposed to risks such as labour exploitation, violence, and health problems.Based on these findings, the research proposes intervention strategies focused on community awareness, the strengthening of child protection public policies, and the creation of educational and economic opportunities for families in vulnerable situations.