By Sr. Semerita Mbambu, Coordinator Bakhita Anti Human Trafficking
The St. Bakhita Anti-Human Trafficking Network Uganda, a network under Association of Religious in Uganda (ARU) has received a major boost in its efforts to combat human trafficking following the approval of a three-year project funded by the Conrad N. Hilton Foundation in June, 2026.
The funding will strengthen prevention initiatives, expand survivor rehabilitation services, and enhance the capacity of Religious Sisters across Uganda to serve as frontline advocates against human trafficking.
The project marks a significant milestone for the Network as it continues its mission of preventing human trafficking, protecting vulnerable communities, and supporting survivors in rebuilding their lives. Through the Foundation’s support, the Network will scale up awareness campaigns, strengthen community engagement, and provide continued training and mentorship for Religious Sisters working in different parts of the country.
Since the beginning of the year, the Network has facilitated rescue and empowerment programs for more than 25 survivors of human trafficking. Through psychosocial support, counselling, skills development, economic empowerment, and community reintegration, survivors have been able to rebuild their lives with renewed dignity, confidence, and hope for a brighter future.
A key focus of the Network’s work has been strengthening the capacity of Religious Sisters to identify, prevent, and respond to human trafficking cases within their communities and ministries. Through training and awareness programs, Sisters are acquiring the skills and knowledge needed to protect vulnerable women, children, and youth from exploitation.
Currently, the Network is building the capacity of Religious Sisters across Uganda’s four ecclesiastical provinces of Kampala, Gulu, Mbarara, and Tororo. These Sisters play a critical role in raising awareness in schools, parishes, communities, and institutions about the dangers of human trafficking and the importance of safe migration practices.
The Conrad N. Hilton Foundation-funded project will further empower these efforts by providing resources for expanded prevention programs, survivor support services, and nationwide awareness campaigns. It will also create opportunities for ongoing leadership development and capacity building among Religious Sisters, strengthening their role as agents of change in the fight against human trafficking.
The approval of the project reflects confidence in the Network’s vision and commitment to creating a Uganda free from human trafficking. Through strategic partnerships, faith-based leadership, and community engagement, the Network continues to address the root causes of trafficking while promoting human dignity, social justice, and protection for the most vulnerable.
Inspired by the witness of Saint Josephine Bakhita, the Network remains committed to standing in solidarity with survivors and vulnerable communities, working tirelessly to prevent exploitation, restore hope, and create pathways to a brighter future.
The St. Bakhita Anti-Human Trafficking Network Uganda extends its sincere appreciation to the Conrad N. Hilton Foundation, Religious Congregations, diocesan leaders, government agencies, development partners, and all supporters whose contributions make this mission possible. Together, they are strengthening communities, empowering Religious Sisters, restoring dignity to survivors, and advancing the vision of a Uganda where every person can live free from human trafficking.
“Empowering Sisters, Restoring Lives, and Preventing Human Trafficking Across Uganda.”
