Uganda Steps Up Fight Against Human and Drug Trafficking, Strengthens National Policies

KAMPALA, UGANDA — During the 2nd conference on combating human and drug trafficking, held on February 4, 2025, at the Office of the President Auditorium, Uganda’s senior officials and policymakers emphasized the urgent need to fortify the country’s laws and collaborative efforts to counter these growing challenges.

Strengthening National Laws and Policies

Ambassador Dr. Mohamed A. Kisuule, the Senior Presidential Advisor on Middle East Affairs and Chairman of the organizing committee for the conference, passionately called for the strengthening of Uganda's national laws and policies on narcotics and human trafficking. In his keynote address, Dr. Kisuule highlighted the importance of coordinating efforts with anti-corruption bodies to close gaps that traffickers might exploit.

"The government must prioritize the enhancement of our national laws and policies against narcotics and human trafficking. This includes collaborating closely with anti-corruption agencies to prevent traffickers from taking advantage of any weaknesses or corrupt elements within our systems," Dr. Kisuule emphasized.

He also pointed out the need for targeted sensitization campaigns for Ugandans living abroad. Dr. Kisuule suggested that these campaigns should be spearheaded by the Office of the President, particularly the Diaspora and Middle East Affairs department, in collaboration with the Ministry of Internal Affairs and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. This initiative would also involve selected Ugandan missions abroad, ensuring a comprehensive and united approach.

In his speech, Dr. Kisuule extended gratitude to Haji Yunus Kakande, Secretary at the Office of the President, recognizing his instrumental role in the supervision, facilitation, and administrative guidance essential to the successful organization of the conference.

A Universal Approach to a Universal Problem

Maj. Gen. Kahinda Otafiire, Minister of Internal Affairs, served as the chief guest and underscored the global nature of the trafficking crisis. "Drug trafficking is a universal problem, and it demands a universal solution," Otafiire stated. He urged parents and religious leaders to guide and support the youth in resisting involvement in human and drug trafficking. Reflecting on history, he remarked, "Human trafficking began with the slave trade. It is a centuries-old scourge that we must eradicate together."

Maj. Gen. Otafiire also appealed to security agencies to adopt a rehabilitative approach toward the youth involved in these illegal activities. "Let us not merely punish our youth but rehabilitate them after arrest, for they are indeed the future of our nation," he advised.

Protecting Ugandan Workers Abroad

Hon. Esther Anyakun Davinia, Minister of State for Gender, Labour, and Social Development, with a focus on Labour, Employment, and Industrial Relations, highlighted the government’s ongoing dialogue with the Saudi Arabian government. This dialogue seeks to provide insurance coverage for all Ugandan workers abroad who travel through legal channels.

"The government is in touch with the Saudi authorities to secure insurance for our workers abroad. This measure aims to combat the exploitation linked to human and drug trafficking," said Hon. Anyakun.

The conference concluded with a strong commitment from all parties involved to bolster Uganda’s legal frameworks and international cooperation to tackle the twin menaces of human and drug trafficking. With continued dedication and strategic collaboration, Uganda aims to safeguard its citizens and its reputation on the global stage.