By As schools close for the long holiday, police have urged parents to be extra vigilant, warning that poor supervision and inappropriate dressing of children are contributing factors in rising cases of child abuse.
Kampala Metropolitan Police spokesperson SP Rachael Kawala issued the caution while sharing holiday safety guidelines for parents and guardians, stressing that many dangers children face occur within their own homes.
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Kawala emphasized that children should be dressed appropriately for their age, noting that sexual predators often take advantage of minors who appear older than they are.
“Don’t dress a very little child of 14 years like an adult,” she said. “Dress them appropriately so that defilers don’t mistake them for adults.”
She added that both boys and girls are at risk and urged parents to recognise that “defilers and child abusers can also be in your homes,” including relatives and trusted adults.
Beyond dressing, Kawala encouraged parents to spend time talking openly with their children about their school experiences, the dangers they may face, and the importance of not keeping harmful secrets.
She also advised parents to monitor what children watch on television, social media, and smartphones, warning that many minors are increasingly exposed to inappropriate online content under the guise of doing homework or school projects.
Kawala condemned parents who take children to bars or expose them to adult environments, noting that such behaviour sets a harmful example.
She further urged families to limit children’s visits to neighbours, relatives, and shops during the holidays to prevent physical or sexual abuse.
“In conclusion, children should at all times be attended to,” she said. “Let us avoid leaving our children unattended.”
Police say they will continue sensitisation campaigns throughout the holiday period, but insist the primary duty of protection rests with parents and guardians.
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