By Jumah Kakomo
In a bold move to combat human trafficking, the Ugandan government has announced a ban on tours and travel companies linked to trafficking activities. The decision comes as part of a wider effort to protect vulnerable Ugandans from exploitation and ensure their safety both at home and abroad.
The Minister of State for Labour, Employment, and Industrial Relations, Esther Davinia Anyakun, called human trafficking a “heinous crime” that exploits and harms innocent individuals. “The government cannot tolerate companies that prioritize profits over human lives,” she said, stressing the administration’s commitment to safeguarding its citizens from harm.
The announcement follows the successful repatriation of over 146 Ugandans who had been stranded or exploited in Saudi Arabia. These individuals were brought back to Uganda as part of the government’s 60-day amnesty program aimed at supporting those who had fallen victim to trafficking or poor working conditions overseas.
Minister Anyakun highlighted the government’s ongoing efforts to protect the rights and well-being of migrant workers, acknowledging the support of international organizations such as Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch in advocating for migrant workers’ rights. “The repatriation program is a significant step toward protecting Ugandans who have been subjected to exploitation, particularly in countries like Saudi Arabia,” she noted.
However, the minister also expressed deep concern over the rise in cases where young girls are trafficked abroad by unregistered travel companies. These individuals are often forced into unlawful activities, including domestic servitude and sexual exploitation. Anyakun described the abuse of these victims as a serious national concern that requires urgent intervention.
As part of the government’s strategy to combat trafficking, the minister urged Ugandans in Saudi Arabia who are stranded or in distress to report to the nearest airports for repatriation. “We are doing everything we can to ensure that those who were deceived or trapped in exploitative conditions are brought home safely,” she added.
Additionally, Anyakun emphasized new measures to tackle human trafficking more effectively. These include a crackdown on unregistered tour and travel companies, stricter enforcement of regulations, and increased public awareness campaigns about the dangers of trafficking. She also called on Ugandans to report suspicious activities and to use only registered, reputable travel agencies when considering overseas employment.
“This is a call to action for all Ugandans. We must work together to stop human trafficking and protect those most at risk,” Minister Anyakun concluded. The government’s bold actions signal a strong commitment to eradicating human trafficking and ensuring that Ugandan citizens can travel and work abroad in safety and dignity.
The ban on companies linked to human trafficking and the ongoing repatriation efforts mark a positive step forward in the fight against this global issue, but continued vigilance and international cooperation will be essential to ensure long-term success in protecting vulnerable workers abroad.
“This call to action is part of the government’s efforts to prevent trafficking and protect its citizens. With this ban, the government aims to create a safer environment for its citizens and to hold accountable those who engage in human trafficking,”Anyakun stated.
