Kerry Howard Mesigwa.
The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP), in collaboration with the Human Trafficking Institute (HTI) and Liberty Shared, has made a historic move by launching Uganda’s inaugural live data visualization dashboard for human trafficking cases. This innovative initiative marks a significant milestone in the battle against human trafficking, aiming to foster collaboration and data-driven solutions.
In June 2021, the ODPP joined forces with HTI and Liberty Shared to develop the Trafficking in Persons Mobile App Platform (TIPMAP). Designed exclusively for ODPP prosecutors handling Trafficking in Persons (TIP) cases, TIPMAP serves as a user-friendly case reporting platform. This cutting-edge tool ensures seamless data collection and sharing across all 19 ODPP regions of Uganda, providing up-to-date and consistent information on human trafficking investigations and prosecutions
Uganda is taking a bold step in the fight against human trafficking by making the data recorded on the TIPMAP platform accessible to the public through a series of powerful data visualization and analysis dashboards on the ODPP website (https://www.dpp.go.ug/). These interactive dashboards will offer insights into trends, challenges, achievements, and key statistics of the ODPP’s relentless efforts in combatting human trafficking. From case numbers and convictions to the types of exploitation, victims, and traffickers involved, the dashboards will provide a comprehensive picture of the battle against this pervasive crime.
Sharing case data among different regions enables collaboration across departments and enhances tracking of suspected and convicted traffickers, leading to a more coordinated and strategic approach to combatting TIP crimes. Effective record keeping and information sharing, coupled with improved investigative and prosecution techniques, will equip criminal justice stakeholders to dismantle trafficking networks and safeguard vulnerable victims.
During the launch, Justice Jane Frances Abodo, the Director of Public Prosecutions, emphasized the significance of the ODPP TIPMAP website in disseminating vital information to stakeholders and the public. With the data at hand, she envisions a more robust effort in preventing and safeguarding both Ugandans and non-Ugandans from the clutches of trafficking.
Victor Boutros, CEO, and Founder of the Human Trafficking Institute, commended the ODPP and the Police for their dedication in combatting human trafficking. He emphasized that enforcement plays a pivotal role in reducing prevalence, and Uganda’s strides in prosecuting traffickers offer tangible hope to eradicate this crime and protect its victims.
Guided by Uganda’s Constitution, the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions stands unwavering in its commitment to investigate criminal activities and bring justice to victims. Alongside the Human Trafficking Institute, they strive to eliminate human trafficking at its source by empowering law enforcement with the necessary tools and training to halt traffickers and free victims.
