Frequently Asked Questions

Human trafficking is the recruitment, transportation, transfer, harbouring or receipt of persons by means of threat, force, coercion, abduction, fraud, deception, or abuse of power for the purpose of exploitation. Under the Prevention of Trafficking in Persons Act 2009, trafficking is a serious criminal offence in Uganda punishable by up to 15 years imprisonment.

Common forms include: trafficking for domestic servitude, where victims are recruited as domestic workers under false promises; trafficking for labour exploitation in agriculture, construction, and fishing; trafficking for sexual exploitation; trafficking of children for commercial purposes; and cross-border trafficking to the Middle East, particularly for domestic work. Internal trafficking from rural to urban areas is also prevalent.

Warning signs include: a person whose identity documents are held by their employer; someone who is not free to leave their workplace; a person who shows signs of physical abuse or malnourishment; someone who works excessive hours without pay or with minimal pay; a person who appears fearful, anxious, or submissive; someone who was recruited with false promises about the nature of the work; and children found working in exploitative conditions.

If you suspect trafficking, report to the nearest police station or contact the Uganda Police Force anti-trafficking unit. You can also report to the local council authorities, district labour officer, or organizations like PLA that provide legal aid to trafficking victims. Do not attempt to confront the traffickers yourself. Protect the identity and safety of the suspected victim.

The Prevention of Trafficking in Persons Act 2009 provides protections including: victims shall not be prosecuted for offences committed as a direct result of being trafficked; victims are entitled to receive medical treatment, counselling, and shelter; victims have the right to legal representation; the government shall facilitate the safe return of victims to their home country or community; and victims may be eligible for compensation from the offender.

Prevention measures include: verifying the legitimacy of employment offers, especially those involving travel abroad; never surrendering identity documents to employers or recruiters; being cautious of offers that seem too good to be true; educating communities about the tactics used by traffickers; reporting suspicious recruitment activities to authorities; and seeking guidance from PLA or other trusted organizations before accepting overseas employment. Parents should verify the identity and intentions of anyone offering to take their children for work or education.