Professional sports require a stream of upwardly mobile amateur players who are cultivated in school years. This mentorship of each child takes a lot of time, energy and effort. Children are particularly vulnerable to exploitation. The world of sports is highly competitive, and it can also be very lucrative.

Given all these dynamics it is imperative to safeguard children from exploitation, harm or worse – trafficking. Likewise, a child and the parents involved may be blissfully unaware of image and branding issues that can crop up when a child is still an amateur minor, but which will have impact on the child’s development or professional career.

There are various safeguarding programs in Africa, and it is imperative for schools, Universities, Clubs and forums to be acutely aware of the ethical and legal responsibilities in caring for children.