As part of the “Protect Uganda’s Future” campaign, the Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development (MGLSD) has issued clear guidelines urging Ugandans to actively protect children and vulnerable persons from exploitation.
The Ministry emphasized that children should remain in school and be shielded from harmful or abusive work. It highlighted common tactics used by traffickers, including recruitment through fake job offers, withholding documents, upfront payment demands, and pressure to leave home or migrate.
Citizens are encouraged to verify any job offers and recruitment agents, ensure that contracts are written and transparent, and reject any suspicious recruitment practices. “Be alert to trafficking tactics. If someone is being recruited, moved, or controlled for exploitation, this is trafficking. Children can be trafficked even without force,” the Ministry warned.
Reporting is central to prevention. Ugandans are urged to contact the Child Helpline 116, which operates toll-free and confidentially, to report suspected exploitation.
“Silence enables exploitation. Reporting helps protect victims, stop perpetrators, and safeguard our communities,” the Ministry said.
The campaign also emphasizes the role of parents, teachers, employers, and local leaders in ensuring children remain safe and informed. By empowering families and communities, officials believe Uganda can significantly reduce the risk of child exploitation and trafficking while supporting victims in accessing protection and rehabilitation services.
