149 Children Rescued in Crackdown on Child Exploitation

[Archival Sense]

Authorities have rescued 149 children, including 123 girls and 26 boys, in an ongoing crackdown on child exploitation in Uganda.

The children were rescued during operations targeting the use of minors for begging, loitering, hawking and street vending.

Authorities said the rescued children will be transferred to Musulita Children’s Home, where they will receive rehabilitation and psychosocial support before efforts are made to reunite them with their families.

The operation comes amid concerns over the exploitation of children in streets and other public spaces, where some are used to generate income through begging and informal trade.

Authorities have warned parents, guardians and other individuals against involving children in such activities.

Under the law, anyone found using children to beg, loiter, hawk or vend is committing a criminal offence and risks up to six months in prison or a fine determined by court.

The crackdown is expected to continue as authorities target individuals exploiting children for economic gain while seeking to protect vulnerable minors and return them to safe family environments.

Photos courtesy of KCCA