The Archbishop of Kampala, His Grace Paul Ssemogerere, has strongly condemned human trafficking, describing it as a modern form of slavery that continues to prey on the most vulnerable members of society.
Speaking during the National Day of Prayer against Human Trafficking, Archbishop Ssemogerere, who also heads the Commission for the Laity at the Uganda Episcopal Conference, highlighted the severe impact of trafficking, especially on women and young people. He said many survivors are left with lasting scars, the most significant being psychological torture.
“There are several forms of human trafficking,” he noted. “Survivors often recount horrific experiences, and women, in particular, are left to struggle with raising children alone while also facing barriers to justice.”
The prayer event, organized by the Uganda Episcopal Conference in collaboration with various partners, was held under the theme: “Human Trafficking is Organized Crime – Let’s End Exploitation.”
Archbishop Ssemogerere emphasized that fighting trafficking requires collective responsibility. “We must all rise and say no to slavery in all its forms,” he urged. “This is not just a government problem. It affects all of us, and we must all be part of the solution.”
Speaking at the same event, Basaalirwa Kigenyi, an officer from the Anti-Trafficking Department at the Ministry of Internal Affairs, revealed that young girls are the most affected demographic due to widespread youth unemployment in Uganda.
He added that the government is actively working with stakeholders including law enforcement, religious institutions, families, and NGOs to combat the problem.
Several interventions have been put in place to prevent trafficking and support survivors.
Among the key organizations involved in the fight against human trafficking is the John Paul II Justice and Peace Center, which continues to raise awareness and advocate for justice and protection for victims.
By Gideon Ssebulime
12th Sept 2025
END
