The government has expanded its strategy to eliminate child labor, slavery, and human trafficking through a new national digital awareness campaign launched in coordination with international development agencies.
The Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development officially unveiled the Protect Uganda’s Future initiative March 5, 2026, marking a strategic collaboration with the International Labour Organization and Enabel. The monthlong campaign is designed to mobilize the public through digital platforms like X and TikTok to recognize exploitation and report suspected cases to authorities.
Ministry officials noted that child labor and modern slavery remain serious threats to the dignity and opportunities of children. The government plan emphasizes that exploitation often begins through poverty-related vulnerability, misinformation, and deceptive recruitment practices, including those occurring on digital platforms where traffickers lure victims with false promises of employment.
In Uganda, any work involving a person under 18 is classified as illegal child labor if it prevents schooling, is hazardous, or is physically and morally abusive. Government leaders stated that when children are forced into harmful work, the nation loses its future productivity and safety.
To strengthen enforcement, the ministry is conducting countrywide labor inspections and monitoring compliance within workplaces and supply chains. These activities are led by ministry and district officials to identify risks early and ensure employers adhere to national labor laws.
The public is urged to remain alert to trafficking tactics and to verify all job offers before acceptance. The ministry specifically cautioned against recruiters who demand upfront fees, withhold documents, or discourage contact with family members.
A central component of the partnership is the use of the toll-free Child Helpline 116. Citizens are encouraged to report exploitation confidentially to enable timely response and protection through established referral mechanisms.
Ministry leadership emphasized that protecting children is a national development priority. Officials called on parents, teachers, and religious leaders to join the effort, noting that reporting helps stop perpetrators and safeguards communities.
