By KT Reporter
The Ministry of Internal Affairs, in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), has launched a nationwide debating competition aimed at raising awareness about the dangers of human trafficking.
The competition will involve 12 secondary schools from six selected districts across Uganda. The districts are Kitgum, Omoro, Terego, Yumbe, Kyegegwa, and Amudat, which have been identified as vulnerable to human trafficking due to their proximity to borders or hosting refugees.
Memory Rukuna, the Coordination Officer for the Prevention of Trafficking in Persons at the Ministry of Internal Affairs, the primary objective of the competition is to educate young people about the risks associated with human trafficking.
The launch of the competition coincides with growing concerns over human trafficking in Uganda.
According to the 2023 Uganda Police Annual Crime Report, 1,006 cases of trafficking in persons were reported last year. Of these cases, only 11 resulted in convictions, one was dismissed, and 319 remain pending.
The competition will focus on the topic “Prevention of Trafficking in Persons” and will consist of a series of rounds, with winning teams advancing to subsequent stages. Rukuna announced that YY Okot Memorial College and Kitgum High School will represent Kitgum district in the competition, with the date and venue yet to be confirmed.
The initiative aligns with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 8, which aims to promote decent work and economic growth, and Goal 16, which seeks to foster peaceful and inclusive societies.
Rukuna expressed gratitude to the UNDP for their support-URN. Give us feedback on this story through our email: kamwokyatimes@gmail.com
