Kampala, Uganda — Uganda is preparing to host its second crucial conference dedicated to combating human trafficking and drug trafficking. Building on the substantial progress achieved during the first conference in October 2024, which yielded a 15% increase in voluntary reporting of related cases, this event, themed “Protecting Our Future: Strengthening Collaboration Against Human and Drug Trafficking,” promises to be a pivotal moment in the nation’s ongoing fight. Scheduled for February 4th, 2025, at the President’s Conference Main Hall at the Twin Towers, the conference will bring together key stakeholders in a collaborative effort to build a safer, more just society.
The conference is spearheaded by the Office of the President, organized by Senior Presidential Advisor on Middle East Affairs, Ambassador Ahmed Kisuule, and Senior Presidential Advisor on Diaspora Affairs, Ambassador Abbey Walusimbi, alongside the Special Presidential Mobilization Task Force for Peace and Development.
Key Expected Attendees & Participants:
This important gathering will bring together a diverse representation of key players, demonstrating a unified national resolve:
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Government Representatives: Rt. Hon. Rebecca Kadaga (First Deputy Prime Minister), Hon. Maj. Gen. Kahinda Otafiire (Minister of Internal Affairs), Hon. Esther Anyakun Davinia (Minister of Labour), and other high-ranking officials from the Ministries of Internal Affairs, Foreign Affairs, the Office of the President, and the Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development. Their presence strongly signals the government’s commitment to addressing these pressing issues.
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Security Agencies: Representatives from the SFC, DIS, ISO, ESO, Interpol, the IGP, Uganda CAA, the Director of Citizenship and Immigration Control, and the State House Anti-Corruption Unit will collaborate to enhance multi-agency efforts and coordinated responses.
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International Partners: The presence of Ambassador Sanusi Tejan Savage from the IOM shows the global community’s support for Uganda’s endeavors.
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Domestic Partners: Heads of recruitment agencies, travel agencies, human rights groups, and migrant workers advocacy groups will actively contribute, furthering the commitment to collaborative, multi-sectoral engagement.
Key Focus Areas & Strategies:
The conference will prioritize four key areas, each with targeted strategies:
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Strengthening Community-Based Prevention Programs: The “Hope for Tomorrow” program, launched to empower vulnerable communities, aims to reach 35,000 individuals by December 2025 through educational programs and support networks. This proactive approach will prevent individuals from becoming victims.
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Utilizing Technology for Enhanced Detection and Investigation: The integration of AI-driven tools for data analysis and trend prediction is projected to accelerate case resolution times by 20%, enabling swifter interventions and more effective prosecutions.
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Enhancing International Collaboration and Information Sharing: A new regional information-sharing platform will facilitate the seamless exchange of intelligence and best practices among neighboring countries, bolstering regional efforts to combat these transnational crimes.
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Improving Victim Identification and Support Services: Expanding access to vital support services for victims remains a top priority, with a target of a 10% increase in the number of individuals receiving crucial assistance and resources.
The Path Forward:
This upcoming conference marks a significant advancement in Uganda’s ongoing fight. By fostering strong collaboration, sharing best practices, and harnessing the power of technology, Uganda is demonstrating its resolute commitment to creating a safer future for all its citizens. While the challenges remain considerable, this collective effort positions Uganda to make substantial progress in eradicating human trafficking and drug trafficking.
