In a significant crackdown on child exploitation, the Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) has rescued 157 children and arrested 18 adults involved in street begging. This operation, conducted on April 10, 2025, is part of the enforcement of the Kampala Capital City Child Protection Ordinance 2022.

Key Findings
– Rescued Children: 157 children were rescued, with many trafficked from Eastern Uganda and 22 from other parts of the country.
– Arrests: 18 adults were arrested for using children to beg, a criminal offense under the Child Protection Ordinance.
– Rehabilitation: Rescued children are being transferred to the Koblin Youth Rehabilitation Centre for counseling, rehabilitation, and reintegration into society.

The Law and Its Implications
– Child Begging: Using children to beg is a criminal offense, punishable by up to six months in jail or a fine of Shs40,000.
– No Handouts: Giving money, food, or clothing to street children is prohibited, as it encourages them to remain on the streets.
– Parental Responsibility: Parents or guardians whose children are found loitering in the city are liable under the law ¹.

KCCA’s Commitment
The KCCA enforcement team will continue to conduct operations to make Kampala a safer and more child-friendly city. They urge the public to join forces to protect children from harm and exploitation.

Background
Child begging is a long-standing issue in Kampala, with many children forced onto the streets by traffickers. The KCCA has been working to address this issue through rescue operations and rehabilitation programs.

#GuguddeTvUganda