The Uganda Police has revealed alarming figures on sexual violence against children, reporting that at least 191 minors were defiled by individuals known to be HIV positive in 2025. The findings were released in the 2025 Annual Crime Report by Inspector General of Police Abas Byakagaba at Police Headquarters in Naguru.
Defilement remains one of the most prevalent crimes in the country, despite an overall decline. A total of 10,492 cases were reported in 2025, down from 12,312 in 2024, representing a 14.8% decrease. Of these, 7,019 cases were classified as simple defilement, while 3,473 were aggravated.
Disturbingly, the report indicates that 94 pupils were defiled by teachers, 65 children by guardians, and 40 by parents. Vulnerable groups, including 55 children living with disabilities, were also targeted. Children aged 15 to 17 years were the most affected, accounting for 7,750 cases.
On the justice front, 4,886 cases were taken to court, with only 713 resulting in convictions. Police arrested 4,999 suspects, with 740 convicted and 3,900 cases ongoing in court. Aggravated defilement cases were highest in the Rwenzori West region (225 cases), followed by KMP North (221), Rwizi (212), and Wamala (204). At the district level, Mukono Division and Luweero recorded the highest numbers, with 72 cases each.
The report underscores the urgent need for strengthened child protection measures, legal reforms, and community vigilance to protect Uganda’s most vulnerable citizens.
