Employers warned against illegal child labour 

The government has warned employers, recruiters and individuals against engaging children in hazardous or exploitative work as it launched a new national campaign against child labour and human trafficking.

The Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development unveiled the “Protect Uganda’s Future” digital awareness campaign on March 5, 2026 under the Ending Child Labour, Slavery & Trafficking Programme.

The State Minister for Gender Davinia Anyakun said the initiative aims to strengthen public awareness about exploitation while reinforcing enforcement of labour laws.

The minister cautioned that using children in dangerous work or activities that disrupt schooling is illegal and will attract legal action.

“Children should be in school and safe. Any work that is dangerous, abusive or prevents schooling is unacceptable,” the minister said.

As part of wider government interventions, authorities are conducting countrywide labour inspections, monitoring workplace compliance and strengthening checks within supply chains.

Officials say these inspections are intended to identify child labour risks early and ensure employers follow labour regulations.

The ministry is also carrying out community sensitisation campaigns across districts to educate families about the dangers of child exploitation.

Authorities say poverty and misinformation often make families vulnerable to traffickers who promise employment or educational opportunities for children.

The campaign therefore aims to empower communities to identify suspicious recruitment practices and take action quickly.

Members of the public have been asked to cooperate with inspection teams and report suspected cases through the Child Helpline 116.

Officials say community cooperation is essential to ending exploitation and keeping children in school.