Uganda Police Force says to recruit rehabilitated street children

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The Uganda Police Force has unveiled plans to recruit rehabilitated street children into its ranks, positioning the move as a pathway for rehabilitation, skills development, and social reintegration.

This was revealed during the commemoration of the International Day for Street Children, held at Pan African Square near Clock Tower in Kampala on Wednesday.

Speaking at the event, SSP Carol Kushemererwa from the Child and Family Protection Office in Kampala Metropolitan (KMP) said the Force is open to giving former street children a second chance through service.

“We need street children to join the forces. I am happy we have seen a one Police officer called the King of the Jungle from Mbarara who came from the street. Those who have been rehabilitated can help us to convince others to come and join the Uganda Police,” she said.

Kushemererwa said police recruitment processes are inclusive and do not discriminate based on background. “We don’t consider where someone comes from. Not every street child is a criminal."

One of the street connected children performing during the commemoration of Street Children at Pan African Square on Wednesday.

She said rehabilitated youth can play a vital role in influencing others who are still living on the streets to embrace transformation and structured livelihoods.

Kushemererwa also called on parents and communities to work closely with government agencies to address the growing number of street children, particularly in Kampala and other urban centres.

Faith Kembabazi, the executive director of Children At Risk Action Network (CRANE), underscored the importance of multi-agency collaboration in supporting vulnerable children.

She noted that many children flee abusive homes and require protection, counselling, and reintegration support.

Shafiq Butanda, the principal probation officer at the Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development, reaffirmed that the government does not condone children living on the streets.

He said ongoing efforts — through Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) and partner organisations — are focused on rescuing, rehabilitating, and reuniting children with their families.