crime 24 April 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Alarming Surge in Juvenile Crime Demands Urgent Action in Uganda
Uganda is witnessing a sharp rise in child offenders, with remand home populations jumping from 1,111 to 5,426 between financial years, linked to parental neglect and systemic issues. Justice Minister Norbert Mao calls for faster judicial processes, diversion programs, and better parenting to break the cycle. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/oped/editorial/rising-child-crime-should-concern-us-all-5434758
Uganda’s youthful population requires focused attention on youth welfare, yet juvenile crime is escalating rapidly. Justice sector data shows remand home numbers soared from 1,111 in 2023/2024 to 5,426 in 2024/2025, with juvenile cases climbing from 2,268 to 3,303.
At the 2026 National Performance Review Conference, Justice Minister Norbert Mao highlighted the strain on facilities, attributing it to poor parenting, resettlement delays, and justice system gaps. Recent police raids in Kampala, targeting gangs along Nakivubo channel, nabbed suspects aged 12-20 robbing pedestrians on Entebbe Road.
This pattern of youth fleeing homes for street life and crime persists despite remand homes and rehab efforts. Many slip through the cracks, perpetuating the issue.
Mao proposed solutions like deploying judges to remand homes for swift juvenile sessions, partnering with developers for on-site courts, and diversion for minor offenses. However, parental responsibility is key—neglect at home fuels the problem.
All stakeholders must act: improve parenting, plug systemic holes, decongest facilities, and prevent youth from crime paths.
Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)