The High Court has convicted popular Islamic cleric Sheikh Umar Muwonge Kamoga of aggravated trafficking in children after finding that he exploited his 13-year-old niece.

Presiding Judge Alice Komuhangi ruled that Sheikh Kamoga took the girl from her parents, housed her at his residence, and exercised control over her for the purpose of sexual exploitation. The court heard that the victim's parents were unable to afford her school fees, leaving the young girl completely dependent on her uncle for her education.

Prosecution's stance. State prosecutors pushed for a life sentence, describing the crime as a grave breach of trust committed within a domestic setting where the victim was entirely under the convict's power. The prosecution emphasized that many young girls in vulnerable households suffer similar abuse in silence for fear of losing basic financial support.

Defence and final sentence. In mitigation, the defence team requested the court to consider the significant time Sheikh Kamoga had spent in custody awaiting the conclusion of his trial. Justice Komuhangi ultimately sentenced him to two years, three months, and 22 days—the exact period he had already served on remand—noting that the time spent behind bars was sufficient for his reform.

Sheikh Kamoga, a well-known cleric who has led prayers in Nansana and hosted a television programme on Spark TV, broke down in tears and knelt before the judge upon hearing the ruling. Following the credit given for his time on remand, the court ordered his immediate release.

King Musah Media will continue to monitor legal developments and court decisions regarding child protection across the country.