Survivors of human trafficking in Uganda are finding hope and rebuilding their lives after enduring years of abuse in the Middle East. With consistent support from EverFree, many have transformed their pain into purpose.
Emily Ounyesiga, a 38-year-old mother of two, now proudly runs a bakery in Kampala. However, her journey to success was anything but easy. In 2017, a recruitment agent deceived her with a promise of a nanny job in Abu Dhabi. The offer included a salary of $400 per month, which was six times more than what she earned in Uganda. Instead, the agent trafficked her into forced labor. For four painful years, she faced starvation, rape, and even imprisonment.
“When I returned to Uganda, I was frail and sick,” Ounyesiga recalled. “However, I was luckier than most. I received medical help, a safe place to stay, and training in baking. Consequently, I managed to rebuild my life.” Today, her bakery not only provides for her family but also stands as a beacon of resilience. Moreover, she hires other survivors of human trafficking, giving them a chance to rebuild their futures.
Her story mirrors the reality faced by many Ugandan women deceived by false job promises in Gulf countries. Nations such as Saudi Arabia, UAE, Oman, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, Jordan, and Lebanon rely heavily on migrant labor. Unfortunately, many women become trapped under the oppressive kafala system, which binds workers to their employers. This system often results in passport confiscation, forced labor, unpaid wages, and horrific abuse.
According to the International Labour Organization, between 2016 and 2023, about 270,000 Ugandans migrated to the Middle East for domestic work. Therefore, poverty and limited job opportunities at home push many women into desperate situations. Unscrupulous recruitment agencies easily exploit this desperation, offering fake promises of well-paying jobs.
In response to this crisis, EverFree plays a vital role in supporting survivors of human trafficking. The nonprofit provides comprehensive services such as safe housing, medical care, counseling, legal aid, and vocational training. In fact, in 2024 alone, EverFree helped 353 survivors start new lives.
“Recovery and rehabilitation are essential,” says Monica Kyamazima, head of EverFree Uganda. “Without proper support, survivors risk retrafficking and lifelong trauma.” Therefore, EverFree’s interventions are more than just relief—they are life-changing.
In addition to care services, EverFree assists survivors in seeking justice. For instance, they help prosecute traffickers in Uganda. Several recruitment agents have already faced jail time, lost their licenses, and paid compensation to victims. These legal victories send a strong warning to others involved in trafficking.
Meanwhile, Uganda’s government has also taken steps to combat human trafficking. It signed agreements with Gulf nations aimed at protecting its citizens. Furthermore, the government launched a job portal that lists only licensed recruitment agencies. However, challenges persist. Derek Kigenyi from the Ministry of Internal Affairs admits the government lacks enough legal staff in Gulf countries. Consequently, assisting victims abroad remains difficult.
On the brighter side, EverFree’s vocational training programs continue to transform lives. Survivors learn practical skills such as baking, tailoring, and jewelry making. As a result, they can start businesses and gain financial independence. For Emily, her bakery is more than just a source of income. “I want to employ more victims of human trafficking who suffered like me,” she explains.
Globally, over 50 million people remain trapped in modern slavery. Yet, less than 1% receive the help they need after escaping, according to EverFree. Uganda’s growing number of success stories highlights the importance of comprehensive recovery programs. Moreover, the work of organizations like EverFree not only transforms individual lives but also strengthens entire communities.
Read: Human Traffickers being hunted down after 33 victims were rescued from Naalya house.
