Kampala slum, Wakiso youth rallied on preventing crime

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About 1,000 young people from the slums of Kampala city and Kasangati town council in Wakiso district have been commissioned to stay away from drug use, violence, crime and gender-based violence among others.

“These young people have been mentored and trained, and each one is expected to influence another 10 youths. We hope the message of peace, staying calm, avoiding crime and refraining from forming gangs will spread further,” Rogers Kasirye, the Executive Director of the Uganda Youth Development Link (UYDEL) said.

Kasirye commended the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) and the Netherlands Embassy for their support.

UYDEL, is a National non-governmental organisation that was founded in 1993 to enhance the socio-economic transformation of disadvantaged young people aged 10-24 years through evidence-based interventions that: advocate; create linkages to services and information; and encourage social and livelihood skills development for self-reliance.

During the commissioning event on Saturday, December 7, 2024, at UYDEL offices in Masoli, Kasangati, their alumni shared testimonies about how their lives had changed after leaving drugs and crime behind.

Some of the young people who were commissioned to stay away from drug use, violence, crime and gender-based violence at Uganda Youth Development Link rehabilitation centre in Masoli. (Credit: Violet Nabatanzi)

Kasirye said: “We receive many young people involved in crime. Out of every 100 young people who come to our centres, about 35% have had encounters with the judicial system or have been arrested at least once. Many of those we rehabilitate have this history,”

He urged young people not to be deceived into participating in criminal activities.

“There is a need to teach young people to develop the ability to make informed decisions. The choices they make should not bring harm or problems to their lives,” he emphasized.

Kasirye highlighted that poverty and unemployment leave many young people vulnerable, adding, “They need messages of peace, hope, and skilling. By providing this, we can help them lead safe and productive lives.”

Rogers Mutawe, the senior programmes officer at UYDEL, also underscored the crucial role of parents in preventing youth involvement in crime.

“The challenge is that many parents are not actively parenting. Most are focused on working and making ends meet. While the economy is tough, it’s important to remember that children need mentoring, guidance, and nurturing. As you work, spare time to bond with your children and build strong attachments,” Mutawe advised.