By Benedict Mukoni__________________
The St. Bakhita Anti – Human Trafficking Network Uganda, now a fully registered NGO
Under ARU has expanded its horizons relocating to new office premises. The new office location was unveiled on May 19, 2025, after a sacrifice of mass led by Fr. Julius Mumbere, C.S.C.
The new offices have been moved to A26, Nsambya Estate Ggogonya road opposite Human Rights offices shortly after Bishop Ddundu’s residence from the previous John Paul II Justice and Peace Center, along Nsereko road.
Sr. Semerita Mbambu – SHC, National Coordinator said that St. Bakhita Anti-Trafficking Network operates and has committees in the 19 Catholic Dioceses of Uganda. These committees comprise of religious men and women, the clergy and the lay people in the dioceses.
The National team work closely with the committees to create awareness and identify survivors who come to them in need of help. The committees plus other lay people, the clergy in the parishes and dioceses, reach out to the survivors to see how they can help them working hand in hand with the national team.
“After identifying the survivors, we assess their needs and help them accordingly. There are those who come with medical and psychological issues, others spiritual. We have both counselling and spiritual accompaniment services to journey with them.” Sr. Semerita disclosed.
Mr. Bwambale Oswaldo, the National Advocacy Officer for St. Bakhita and the Human Trafficking Network Uganda believes that with what God has given to the Network, and the support of partners, especially ARU, John Paul II Justice and Peace Center, and all well-wishers, human dignity can be restored to many.
The director John Paul II Justice and Peace Center; Mr. Alfred Avuni was excited upon this achievement and promised to continue working with the Network. The Board Members also attended the function.
St. Bakhita Network which started in 2021 advocates against human trafficking with a vision of a world free from slavery and a restoration of hope to Ugandans. It is funded by Hilton Foundation through ARU and the Sisters of the Holy Cross are a fiscal agent. It is in Phase II and now a fully registered NGO.
