The police have raised alarms regarding a surge in cases involving domestic workers stealing from their employers, particularly concerning juveniles.
During a recent event where juveniles from Naguru Remand Home in Kampala presented a batch of 400 chickens reared as part of their rehabilitation program, Ms. Mary Kyomugisha, the facility’s probation and welfare officer, highlighted a troubling trend. She noted an increase in underage househelps being charged with theft, often victims of child trafficking from rural areas who resort to criminal activities for survival.
Ms. Kyomugisha emphasized the need for accountability among those involved in trafficking children and advocated for second chances for these vulnerable youths.
Currently, the remand home houses nine girls and 176 boys facing charges related to theft and robbery.
Kampala Metropolitan Police deputy spokesperson, Mr. Luke Owoyesigyire, explained that investigations into such cases often reveal collusion between domestic workers and other individuals, including criminals. He cautioned against hiring housemaids below the age of 18, highlighting the legal repercussions faced by both the underage workers and their employers in such situations.
Moreover, Mr. Owoyesigyire highlighted instances of sexual abuse suffered by underage househelps in their employers’ homes.
Ms. Joyce Odoki Sadori, president of the Rotary Club of Upper Kololo, detailed the club’s support for the remand home, including providing chicks for poultry rearing and sponsoring various skills programs. The initiative aims to equip inmates with valuable skills and generate revenue for the facility through the sale of poultry products.
Mr. Steven Mwanje, past Rotary District 9213 governor, commended the club’s efforts, emphasizing the transformative potential of such programs.
