Government’s Commitment to Addressing Human and Drug Trafficking in Uganda

According to Maj (Rtd) Awich Pollar, financial vulnerability is one of the primary factors that drive individuals into human and drug trafficking. He noted that some victims voluntarily engage in trafficking due to economic hardships. “When Ugandans are financially stable, they are less likely to be vulnerable to human or drug trafficking,” he said.

Feb 4, 2025 - 11:59
Feb 4, 2025 - 12:02
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Government’s Commitment to Addressing Human and Drug Trafficking in Uganda
Maj(Rtd) Awich Pollar, Director External Affairs, NRM Secretariat

Uganda is intensifying efforts to combat human and drug trafficking through a multi-faceted approach aimed at improving citizens’ welfare, strengthening legal frameworks, and enhancing security measures. Maj (Rtd) Awich Pollar, the Director of External Affairs at the National Resistance Movement (NRM) Secretariat, emphasized the government’s commitment to tackling these challenges while preserving Uganda’s reputation both locally and internationally.

Maj (Rtd) Awich Pollar made these remarks on the sidelines of the Second Conference on Combating Human and Drug Trafficking, organized by the Office of the President on 4th February 2025. The conference brought together key stakeholders, including government officials, security agencies, and civil society organizations, to discuss strategies to curb these crimes.

Economic Stability as a Key Intervention

According to Maj (Rtd) Awich Pollar, financial vulnerability is one of the primary factors that drive individuals into human and drug trafficking. He noted that some victims voluntarily engage in trafficking due to economic hardships. “When Ugandans are financially stable, they are less likely to be vulnerable to human or drug trafficking,” he said.

To address this, the government has implemented several economic empowerment initiatives aimed at improving the livelihoods of Ugandans. Programs such as the Parish Development Model (PDM) and the Emyooga Fund have been rolled out to support small and medium enterprises, provide employment opportunities, and reduce financial desperation that often leads individuals into illegal activities.

Maj (Rtd) Awich Pollar stressed that economic growth and job creation are crucial to reducing the appeal of human and drug trafficking networks. By strengthening local employment opportunities, individuals will be less likely to seek dubious opportunities abroad that could lead them into trafficking situations.

Legislative Measures and Awareness Creation

Beyond economic interventions, the government is also prioritizing legal frameworks and public awareness campaigns to combat trafficking. Maj (Rtd) Awich Pollar highlighted the need for robust legislation that criminalizes trafficking and provides harsher penalties for offenders.

“There is a lot of vigilance in terms of legislation. Laws should be in place, enforced, and awareness created to educate people about the dangers of human and drug trafficking,” he said.

Uganda has already taken significant steps in this direction with laws such as the Prevention of Trafficking in Persons Act (2009), which criminalizes all forms of human trafficking. The government is also working on amendments to strengthen penalties and provide better protection for victims.

 

Additionally, awareness campaigns are being conducted to educate the public about trafficking risks, recruitment tactics, and available support systems. These efforts include sensitization through media, schools, and community engagements, ensuring that Ugandans are well-informed about the dangers and consequences of trafficking.

Enhanced Security and Centralized Data Management

Maj (Rtd) Awich Pollar also underscored the critical role of security agencies in combating trafficking. He emphasized the need for a centralized database of Ugandan nationals implicated in human and drug trafficking.

"A centralized system will help identify trends, understand the socio-economic factors contributing to trafficking, and better target interventions," he noted.

Security agencies such as the Uganda Police Force, the Directorate of Citizenship and Immigration Control, and the Uganda Human Trafficking Task Force have been working together to track trafficking networks and dismantle their operations. The proposed database will enhance data sharing, intelligence gathering, and cross-border collaboration, making it easier to curb trafficking syndicates.

Uganda’s Commitment to Global Anti-Trafficking Efforts

The government’s efforts align with international commitments to combat trafficking. Uganda is a signatory to the United Nations Protocol to Prevent, Suppress and Punish Trafficking in Persons, which calls for stringent measures against human trafficking. The country is also working closely with regional and international partners, including Interpol and the East African Community (EAC), to strengthen border controls and disrupt trafficking networks.

Uganda’s approach to combating human and drug trafficking is multi-dimensional, focusing on economic empowerment, legal enforcement, public awareness, and security interventions. As highlighted by Maj (Rtd) Awich Pollar, ensuring financial stability for Ugandans, strengthening legislation, and maintaining a centralized trafficking database will significantly reduce the prevalence of trafficking in the country.

With continued efforts from the government, security agencies, and civil society organizations, Uganda is positioning itself as a leader in the fight against human and drug trafficking, ensuring the safety and well-being of its citizens while protecting its international reputation.

John Kusolo John Kusolo is a Ugandan Journalist, Sport fanatic, Tourist, Pastor, and Motivational Speaker. * Journalist: He works for Nile Chronicles News, NCN. * Passion: Known for his dedication to his work and strong motivation. * Ambitious: He sets goals for himself and strives to achieve them. * Enjoys challenges: He thrives in challenging situations.