
Uganda Police Recruits-Police told on how to curb human trafficking.
In the ongoing battle against the scourge of human trafficking, Greater Masaka is witnessing a pivotal step forward as law enforcement officers receive specialized training from OKOA Refugee, a dedicated non-governmental organization committed to combating this heinous crime.
With human trafficking cases on the rise in the region, OKOA Refugee has taken proactive measures to equip security personnel with the essential skills and knowledge needed to identify and prevent this form of modern-day slavery. Spearheaded by David Kalanda, the director of OKOA Refugee Uganda, this initiative underscores a collective determination to safeguard human rights and uphold dignity.
“Human trafficking is a grave violation of human rights, and we must unite to eradicate it,” emphasized Kalanda. “Through targeted training, we aim to empower security personnel to swiftly recognize trafficking victims and take decisive action to rescue them from exploitation.”
The comprehensive training program encompasses critical areas such as victim identification, investigative techniques, and the prosecution of perpetrators. By focusing on these key aspects, OKOA Refugee endeavors to ensure that law enforcement officers are equipped to handle trafficking cases effectively from detection to resolution.
Alfred Bagambaki, the police spokesperson for Greater Masaka sub-region, hailed the initiative as timely and indispensable. “We have faced challenges in combating human trafficking, but this training provides us with invaluable tools to address the issue head-on,” remarked Bagambaki. With human trafficking statistics revealing a disturbing upward trend, the need for concerted action has never been more urgent.
Indeed, statistics from recent years paint a troubling picture, with reported cases escalating from 421 in 2021 to a staggering 1,200 in 2022 within the Greater Masaka sub-region. Of particular concern are the vulnerable demographics affected, with children under eighteen and women comprising the majority of victims.
“We are unwavering in our commitment to combat human trafficking, and this training is pivotal in our collective endeavor,” affirmed Kalanda. By empowering security personnel with the requisite expertise, OKOA Refugee aims to disrupt the trafficking network and deliver justice for the victims.
The training initiative forms part of OKOA Refugee’s broader campaign to combat human trafficking across Uganda. Through collaborative efforts with communities, law enforcement agencies, and various stakeholders, the organization endeavors to prevent trafficking, provide support to victims, and prosecute perpetrators.
“We stand firm in our resolve to combat human trafficking and protect the vulnerable,” declared Kalanda. In the face of this grave injustice, OKOA Refugee remains steadfast in its mission to create a safer, more compassionate society for all.