news 23 October 2026 Nile Post

Gender Ministry Demands Urgent Action Against Child Labour in Eastern Uganda

The Ministry of Gender has urged local authorities, employers, and stakeholders in Eastern Uganda to strengthen enforcement and household support to combat child labour and trafficking. Source: https://nilepost.co.ug/news/381067/gender-ministry-calls-for-stronger-action-against-child-labour-in-eastern-uganda

The Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development has intensified calls for robust measures to eradicate child labour, modern slavery, and human trafficking in Eastern Uganda. Authorities are urging local governments and employers to step up enforcement and provide comprehensive support systems for vulnerable households.

Speaking at a stakeholders’ sensitisation meeting held at Hotel Zeptan in Jinja City under the Ending Child Labour, Slavery and Trafficking Programme, officials emphasized that exploitative work robs children of their education and exposes them to severe health risks and abuse.

Alex Asiimwe, the ministry’s Acting Permanent Secretary, whose message was delivered by Maurine Karungi, highlighted that persistent poverty and scarce livelihood options heighten household vulnerability. However, he stressed that employers must still uphold their duty to prevent exploitation regardless of economic hardships.

The government has committed financial resources to bolster efforts against modern slavery and child exploitation, aiming for tangible services and measurable results. This initiative mirrors Uganda’s commitments under the International Labour Organization’s Convention No. 182 and Sustainable Development Goal Target 8.7.

National frameworks such as the Second National Action Plan for the Elimination of Child Labour, alongside the Children Act and the Prevention of Trafficking in Persons Act, continue to guide these interventions. Agricultural sectors received specific focus due to the heavy loads, hazardous chemicals, and dangerous tools children often encounter.

Stakeholders including district leaders, business magnates, industrial associations, and agricultural supply chain companies were advised to institute reliable recruitment policies, referral systems, and family tracking mechanisms. Ensuring that rescued children return to school with adequate psychosocial support remains vital to preventing recidivism.