Uganda-India: Bilateral Symposium on Human Trafficking

Uganda-India Bilateral Symposium on Human Trafficking took place, bringing together key stakeholders to address human trafficking challenges between the two countries. The event was co-organized by Mwagale Foundation, Salvation Army Uganda, and Red Rope Movement from India, with the second day held in Kampala at Four Points by Sheraton. The symposium focused on collaborative solutions to cross-border trafficking, emphasizing survivor liberation and inclusion in decision-making processes.

Mwagale Foundation’s Founder, Ndagire Joanita, highlighted the critical importance of empowering survivors to have their voices heard in shaping agreements and policies on trafficking. She emphasized that solutions must come from those directly affected, rather than sidelining survivors from such vital discussions. The event attracted a broad range of stakeholders, including representatives from UCATIP, COPTIP, Willow International, RAHAB Uganda, Make A Child Smile, Uganda Police, and the Human Trafficking Institute, Kyampisi,FootPrint To Freedom, UNCRNN, among others.

Appreciation was extended to both the Ugandan and Indian governments for their ongoing support in repatriating trafficking victims safely back to their home countries. The symposium underscored the challenges of trafficking networks exploiting vulnerable populations, with African women often trafficked to India under false promises of employment and subsequently forced into exploitation. The collaboration between NGOs and governments aims to strengthen prevention, rescue, rehabilitation, and survivor empowerment efforts.

This bilateral symposium is a key step toward enhanced cooperation, knowledge sharing, and joint interventions to combat trafficking between Uganda and India. The engagement of multiple civil society organizations and law enforcement agencies reflects a multi-sectoral commitment to this human rights issue. Mwagale Foundation and its partners remain steadfast in their mission to fight trafficking and support survivors toward healing, freedom, and dignity.