Kasese Leaders Rally Against Human Trafficking, Call for United Action

Jerald Tumusiime

Read Time: 2 mins

Published: 03 July 2025

Kasese, Uganda – The Kasese District security committee has launched a renewed crackdown on human trafficking networks following a highlevel stakeholders' meeting chaired by Resident District Commissioner (RDC) Lt. Joe Walusimbi.

Alarming Trafficking Trends in the Rwenzori Region
Authorities revealed disturbing patterns in local trafficking cases:
Cross-border syndicates exploiting porous Uganda-DRC routes
False job promises luring youth to Middle Eastern countries
Child trafficking disguised as domestic work opportunities

Security Chiefs Sound the Alarm
Lt. Walusimbi issued a stern warning:
"This modern-day slavery won't be tolerated in Kasese. We're mobilising all subcounties to break these criminal chains." The RDC identified poverty and greed as key drivers, urging communities to report suspicious movements.

SSP Donald Muhwezi (COPTIP/Internal Affairs) emphasised child protection:
"Traffickers now target primary school dropouts. Parents must verify all employment offers for their children."

New counter-trafficking measures include village security committees monitoring travellers, enhanced border intelligence units, and public awareness campaigns.

Kasese’s location, high youth unemployment, and limited awareness make it a trafficking hotspot.
Success Stories & Challenges
15 trafficking victims rescued in 2024 (mostly teenage girls)
Low prosecution rates due to witness intimidation
Rehabilitation programs overwhelmed

Community leaders pledged to screen recruiters, report suspicious opportunities, and educate youth about trafficking.

"We're turning every trading centre into an antitrafficking watchtower," declared Kasese District Chairperson Eliphazi Muhindi.

Jerald Tumusiime

Jerald Tumusiime is a dedicated Ugandan journalist with a strong passion for community storytelling in the Rwenzori sub-region. With a keen eye for impactful narratives, he highlights the voices, challenges, and triumphs of local communities. His work focuses on grassroots reporting, shedding light on social issues, development initiatives, and the cultural heritage of the region. With experience in both print and digital media, Jerald is committed to ethical journalism and amplifying underrepresented voices. His reporting not only informs but also drives meaningful dialogue and change within the communities he serves.