news 30 July 2026 Nile Post
Uganda Authorities Warn of Surge in Online Human Trafficking and Emerging Scam Compounds
Ugandan authorities have issued a stern warning regarding the escalating use of digital platforms for human trafficking, noting the rise of local "scam compounds" and the particular vulnerability of young people. Source: https://nilepost.co.ug/news/360326/government-warns-of-rising-online-human-trafficking-as-scam-compounds-emerge
The Ugandan government is expressing grave concern over the evolving landscape of human trafficking, which is increasingly shifting from traditional physical methods to sophisticated online scams. This trend is highlighted by the emergence of “scam compounds” within Uganda itself, with young people being the primary targets.
The warning comes as the Ministry of Internal Affairs released its 2025 National Report on Counter Trafficking in Persons. While the report indicated a slight decrease in reported cases from 1,068 in 2024 to 1,002 in 2025, Minister of Internal Affairs Prof. Ephraim Kamuntu emphasized the growing sophistication of traffickers leveraging online channels.
Children remain the most vulnerable demographic, accounting for 555 victims in the reported cases. Prof. Kamuntu described human trafficking as “modern slavery,” where criminals exploit technology to conceal their activities and treat individuals as commodities. The government has pledged to enhance enforcement of the Prevention of Trafficking in Persons Act through improved investigations, border management, prosecutions, and international cooperation.
The International Organization for Migration (IOM) corroborates these concerns, noting that trafficking networks are becoming more adept. Sarah Carl, IOM’s Head of Programmes and Policy Development, revealed that young Ugandans, especially university graduates seeking employment, are being trafficked to scam compounds abroad and are increasingly being exploited in similar operations emerging within Uganda.
Efforts to combat this threat include strengthening labor migration pathways, creating local employment opportunities to reduce vulnerability, and increasing digital literacy. The Uganda Child Rights NGO Network (UCRNN) pointed out that popular social media platforms are frequently used by traffickers to advertise fake job and education opportunities. The UCRNN advocates for aligning national laws with the African Union’s Model Law on Online Safety to bolster digital protection and hold tech companies accountable.
Authorities urge the public, particularly job seekers, to rigorously verify recruitment agencies and employment offers advertised online. Prevention remains a key focus, with ongoing public awareness campaigns and intensified collaboration between government, civil society, tech companies, and law enforcement agencies being crucial in the fight against this pervasive crime.