Uganda's 2nd Conference on Combating Human and Drug Trafficking: A Collaborative Step Towards a Safer Future
According to Ambassador Abbey Walusimbi, the Senior Presidential Advisor on Diaspora Affairs, this event will be building on the successes of the inaugural conference held in October 2024—which led to a 15% increase in voluntary reporting of trafficking-related cases—this event promises to be a pivotal moment in shaping Uganda’s anti-trafficking strategies.

Uganda is set to host its second high-level conference dedicated to combating human trafficking and drug trafficking, reinforcing its commitment to eradicating these transnational crimes. According to Ambassador Abbey Walusimbi, the Senior Presidential Advisor on Diaspora Affairs,
this event will be building on the successes of the inaugural conference held in October 2024—which led to a 15% increase in voluntary reporting of trafficking-related cases—this event promises to be a pivotal moment in shaping Uganda’s anti-trafficking strategies.
Under the theme “Protecting Our Future: Strengthening Collaboration Against Human and Drug Trafficking,” the conference is scheduled for February 4, 2025, at the President’s Conference Main Hall, Twin Towers. It is spearheaded by the Office of the President and the Special Presidential Mobilization Task Force for Peace and Development, bringing together key stakeholders to forge a united front against these criminal activities.
Amb. Walusimbi says the conference will gather a diverse array of high-profile participants, reflecting Uganda’s collective resolve to tackle human and drug trafficking.
Government Representatives:
The presence of top government officials underscores Uganda’s dedication to eradicating these crimes. Among those expected to attend are:
Rt. Hon. Rebecca Kadaga – First Deputy Prime Minister
Hon. Maj. Gen. Kahinda Otafiire – Minister of Internal Affairs
Hon. Esther Anyakun Davinia – Minister of Labour
Senior officials from the Ministry of Internal Affairs, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Gender, Labour, and Social Development (MGLSD), and the Office of the President
Security Agencies:
Given the transnational nature of these crimes, key security and intelligence agencies will play a central role in discussions. Representatives from the following institutions will enhance multi-agency coordination:
Special Forces Command (SFC)
Directorate of Immigration and Citizenship Control (DCIC)
Directorate of Interpol and International Relations
Internal Security Organization (ISO)
External Security Organization (ESO)
Uganda Police Force (UPF)
State House Anti-Corruption Unit (SH-ACU)
International Partners:
The conference has attracted global interest, with key international stakeholders affirming their support.
Ambassador Sanusi Tejan Savage – Chief of Mission, International Organization for Migration (IOM) Uganda will emphasize the global community’s commitment to Uganda’s anti-trafficking efforts.
Domestic Partners:
A broad spectrum of domestic actors will contribute to shaping effective anti-trafficking strategies, including:
Recruitment and travel agencies involved in labor exportation
Human rights organizations and migrant worker advocacy groups
Civil society organizations (CSOs) and community leaders
Key Focus Areas & Strategic Interventions
The conference will focus on four critical areas designed to bolster Uganda’s response to human and drug trafficking:
Strengthening Community-Based Prevention Programs
Prevention remains a cornerstone of Uganda’s strategy against trafficking. A key initiative under this agenda is the "Hope for Tomorrow" program, designed to:
Empower vulnerable communities through awareness and education. Provide support networks to reduce susceptibility to trafficking. Target 35,000 individuals by December 2025, equipping them with knowledge on identifying and reporting trafficking cases.
Utilizing Technology for Enhanced Detection and Investigation
Recognizing the role of technology in modern crime-fighting, Uganda is embracing AI-driven tools to enhance investigations. Key measures include:
Deployment of artificial intelligence (AI) for data analysis and trend prediction. Expected 20% reduction in case resolution time through predictive analytics.
Improved coordination between law enforcement agencies for faster response times.
Enhancing International Collaboration and Information Sharing
Given that trafficking is a cross-border issue, the conference will emphasize regional cooperation. Launch of a regional intelligence-sharing platform to facilitate real-time information exchange.
Strengthened partnerships with neighboring countries to track and dismantle trafficking networks.
Increased joint training and operations between Ugandan security forces and international agencies.
Improving Victim Identification and Support Services
Ensuring that victims receive the necessary support remains a top priority. Efforts will focus on:
Expanding access to medical, psychological, and legal support for victims.
Increasing the number of rescued individuals receiving assistance by at least 10% in 2025.
Strengthening rehabilitation and reintegration programs for trafficking survivors.
The Path Forward:A Unified Approach to Ending Trafficking
Amb. Walusimbi says the 2nd Conference on Combating Human and Drug Trafficking represents a defining moment in Uganda’s fight against these crimes.
By strengthening multi-agency collaboration, leveraging technology, and reinforcing international partnerships, Uganda is positioning itself as a regional leader in the fight against human and drug trafficking.
While significant challenges remain, the collective commitment of government agencies, security forces, international partners, and civil society signals a brighter, safer future for Ugandans. Through resolute action and strategic collaboration, Uganda is making tangible strides toward eradicating human trafficking and drug-related crimes, protecting its citizens, and upholding justice.
As the conference unfolds, all eyes will be on Uganda’s next steps in translating discussions into concrete policy changes, stronger enforcement mechanisms, and more robust victim protection frameworks. The path ahead may be complex, but with unwavering commitment, Uganda is poised to make a lasting impact in the global fight against trafficking.