An investigation of modern day slavery on construction sites in Rwanda

Abstract

The construction industry is one of the easiest sectors prone to concealing acts of modern-day slavery. Workers are most often exposed to modern-day slavery on construction sites. The study aims to bring to attention and assess the issue of modern-day slavery on construction sites in Rwanda and the extent of exploitation of workers on construction sites. A literature review was undertaken and it delved into identification of the indicators of modern-day slavery, the various causes of modern slavery on construction sites, the effects of modern day slavery and the methods can be used to prevent modern day slavery on construction sites. Questionnaires were used to collect data from construction practitioners such as site engineers, carpenters, joiners, masons/bricklayers, electricians, plumbers, painters, plant operators, crane drivers, steel fixers, tile settlers, labourers and other personals, and others on the construction sites were involved in this study. The data was analysed and presented using descriptive statistics and one sample t-test. The study showed that, workers not being allowed to negotiate working conditions, working for excessively long hours over long periods, no allowance for workers to go on leave and no off days, refusal to pay social security and insure workers on site and workers not having access to medical care were ranked as indicators of modern day slavery that are mostly experienced on construction sites in Rwanda. The study also showed that, a very low margin of profit; variability in labour demand; a high concentration of migrant workers, High demand for low skilled and low waged work, a fragmented inspection system; lack of basic need, lack of alternatives were ranked as the most causes of modern day slavery on construction sites in Rwanda. The study indicated that, depression, post-traumatic, stress disorder, sexually transmitted infections, unwanted pregnancies, physical ill health and malnourishment; mental health issues are the most effects of modern day slavery on construction sites in Rwanda. Workers are sometimes faced with inhumane conditions with little or no regard to their health this would put it the extent of death and injury of construction workers in troubling aspects of the construction sector. The study also indicated that, Visit labourers in their place of work, Educate staff about modern slavery, Provided training to employees and suppliers on slavery risks and compliance, Conducted minimum wage and immigration checks and Understand that the root causes of exploitation could change from region to region are the most solutions to prevent of modern day slavery on construction sites in Rwanda. The study concludes that modern-day slavery is an issue worth more attention. The study recommends awareness of the issue of modern-day slavery by all stakeholders.