Overview:
The operation, launched on Thursday morning and led by Senior Town Clerk John Isingoma, targeted children engaged in casual street businesses such as chapati selling, egg vending, and chicken roasting. Among those rescued were 35 boys and two girls.
Authorities in Kagadi Town Council in Kagadi District have rescued 37 children during an operation aimed at curbing child labour and restoring order in the town.
The operation, launched on Thursday morning and led by Senior Town Clerk John Isingoma, targeted children engaged in casual street businesses such as chapati selling, egg vending, and chicken roasting. Among those rescued were 35 boys and two girls.
Isingoma said the town council estimates that about 70 children in the area are involved in illegal labour activities.
He explained that authorities are currently detaining the children temporarily to identify their parents and the individuals employing them.
According to him, any employers found hiring underage children will be arrested and prosecuted in accordance with the law.
During questioning, many of the children said they were forced to leave their homes due to poverty and domestic challenges.
Isingoma urged parents to take responsibility for their children by ensuring they attend school and have the necessary scholastic materials.
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