KCCA RESCUES 157 CHILDREN FROM STREETS, ARRESTS 18 IN CRACKDOWN ON CHILD EXPLOITATION

In a major crackdown against child exploitation in Kampala, Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) has rescued 157 children and arrested 18 adults who were allegedly using the minors to beg on the streets.

The enforcement operation, carried out on April 10, 2025, follows the implementation of the Kampala Capital City Child Protection Ordinance 2022, a landmark law aimed at curbing child abuse, street begging, and trafficking in the city.

According to KCCA Spokesperson Daniel NuweAbine, the rescued children have been transferred to Koblin Youth Rehabilitation Centre in Napak District, where they will undergo counseling, rehabilitation, and reintegration into society.

“What we found was deeply concerning,” NuweAbine said. “A large number of the children had been trafficked from Eastern Uganda, while 22 came from other parts of the country. This is a clear case of child trafficking and exploitation.”

NuweAbine emphasized that using children to beg is a criminal offense under the Child Protection Ordinance.

“The law is very clear. Anyone found using children to beg, loiter, hawk, or vend is committing a crime and will face up to six months in jail or pay a fine of two currency points—about Shs40,000,” he stated.

He added that the ordinance also prohibits giving money, food, or clothing to street children as it encourages them to remain on the streets.

“Acts such as handing a child food or money while they are on the streets are not acts of charity they perpetuate a cycle of exploitation,” NuweAbine warned.

He noted that any parent or guardian whose child is found loitering in the city is also liable under the law. “Every parent or guardian must ensure that children under their care are protected from hazardous or harmful environments. It is not only a moral obligation but a legal one,” he stressed.

During the operation, KCCA’s enforcement team worked closely with probation and social welfare officers to rescue the children. All rescued minors are now being managed through diversion programs, which focus on care, rehabilitation, and eventual reintegration.

“We continue to engage with the communities where these children come from,” NuweAbine said. “We are working with local leaders, parents, and stakeholders to raise awareness and address the root causes of child trafficking and street migration.”

He also made a call to the public: “Child trafficking and exploitation is a grave crime. Let’s work together to protect our children from harm and give them the future they deserve.”

The KCCA enforcement team said they will continue with such operations in the coming weeks, as part of a broader effort to make Kampala a safer and more child-friendly city.

By Geofrey Mutegeki Araali

Communication and Media Relations Officer