Kamuli Passes Child Protection Ordinance
During a special council session at Kamuli Youth Centre, District Chairperson Maxwell Mugude emphasized that the ordinance seeks to protect children from abuse, violence, and exploitation.
Kamuli – In a major step towards safeguarding children's rights, Kamuli District Local Government has passed the Child Protection Ordinance 2024, aimed at curbing child marriage, labour, and exploitation.
This move follows alarming statistics, with over 28,000 teenage pregnancy cases recorded in the district over the last five years.
During a special council session at Kamuli Youth Centre, District Chairperson Maxwell Mugude emphasized that the ordinance seeks to protect children from abuse, violence, and exploitation.
"This ordinance will ensure that parents, guardians, and all responsible institutions play their roles in protecting children from harmful practices like child labor and early marriage," Mr Mugede said.
He added that the legislation aligns with Uganda's Constitution, the Children Act, and international conventions, including the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC).
The ordinance explicitly bans harmful employment practices, including children working in hazardous environments like quarries, sugarcane plantations, fishing, and sand mining.
Victoria Apili, a former secretary for children's affairs, stressed the importance of this protection, particularly for girls
. "Our girls often bear the brunt of economic pressures, and this ordinance will help protect them from exploitation," she said.
Additionally, the law prohibits children from accessing bars, lodges, and video halls, and it outlaws renting accommodations to minors for immoral purposes. It also aims to prevent children from being exposed to sexual exploitation.
Matilda Natukunda, a legal officer with UWONET, highlighted that the ordinance empowers local child protection committees to intervene in cases where children are at risk.
"This community-driven approach fosters a sense of responsibility among parents, guardians, and community members," Natukunda noted.
She also emphasized the importance of inclusive education, advocating for specialized teachers and resources for children with disabilities.
While the ordinance includes penalties for violators, Natukunda acknowledged the limitations imposed by Uganda's constitution. Offenders face only two currency points (40,000 UGX) or three months in prison, or both.
“Despite these limitations, we must adhere to the law,” she remarked.
Winnie Adur, Project Officer at She Leads Trailblazers Mentoring Foundation, described the ordinance as a vital commitment to the safety and dignity of children.
"This is not just a document; it’s a call to action. We must all play our part in protecting our children, especially girls, from violence and exploitation," Adur said, rallying communities and leaders to create a safe environment for children.
Brian, the coordinator of the Coalition for Health Promotion and Social Development, commended civil society organizations (CSOs) for working closely with local government to draft the ordinance.
"This is our contribution to ensuring children in Kamuli District have access to health, education, and legal assistance," he concluded.
With the passing of this ordinance, Kamuli District aims to make significant strides in reducing child marriages, labor, and abuse, setting an example for other regions to follow.