Uganda Police Force says to recruit rehabilitated street children
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.
SSP Carol Kushemererwa from the Child and Family Protection Office speaking during the commemoration of Street Children at Pan African Square on Wednesday. (Photos By Aloysious Kasoma)
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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.
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.
He said ongoing efforts — through Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) and partner organisations — are focused on rescuing, rehabilitating, and reuniting children with their families.