The 2023 Annual National Report on Countering Trafficking in Persons in Uganda has highlighted a significant drop in reported cases. According to the report, the police recorded 1,006 cases in 2023, down from 1,200 in 2022, marking a 16.6% decrease.
Presented at the Silver Springs Hotel in Kampala by the Uganda National Coordination Office for Prevention of Trafficking in Persons, the report suggests that this decline could either reflect a genuine reduction in trafficking or a decrease in reporting.
Child trafficking remains a critical issue, accounting for 510 cases (50.69%), while adult trafficking comprised 496 cases (49.30%). Victims were primarily subjected to domestic abuse, including sexual and labor exploitation.
Of the 1,006 reported cases, 576 were forwarded to the Directorate of Public Prosecution (ODPP) for review and legal advice. Legal action was taken on 331 cases, resulting in 11 convictions. One case was dismissed, and 319 are still pending.
Let Us Build Your Online Success!
We are the experts in creating visually stunning and functional websites. With reliable hosting and exceptional customer support, we bring your vision to life. Join hundreds of happy clients who trust us!
Get Started Now📞 Call/WhatsApp: +256 207 800 192
Regions like Elgon, Greater Masaka, Kampala Metropolitan Police South, and Wamala were identified as major sources of domestic trafficking. Katwe, Mubende, Namisindwa, and Kamwenge were noted as key areas where children are trafficked.
Internationally, Uganda recorded 10 cases of trafficking, largely attributed to migrants and workers using unofficial channels.
Col. Geoffrey Kambere from the Directorate of Citizenship and Immigration Control, representing the Permanent Secretary of Internal Affairs, launched the report. He urged stakeholders to utilize the report in the ongoing fight against human trafficking.
Col. Kambere emphasized the need for public awareness and sensitization campaigns, capacity building for investigators, prosecutors, judicial officers, and other stakeholders, and enhancing coordination among all involved parties. He assured that in 2024, efforts will continue to focus on public awareness, capacity building, offender punishment, and victim protection.
