Child rights advocates condemn killing of toddlers in Ggaba

3 April 2026, 4:02 pm

By Edwin Okurmu Kisa

The Network for Early Childhood Development Actors Uganda, NECDA, has expressed shock and deep sorrow following the brutal killing of four toddlers in Makindye Division, Kampala.

The children, all aged under three years, were killed at a daycare centre in Ggaba on April 2nd, 2026.

In a press briefing held in Kampala, NECDA extended its deepest condolences to the bereaved families, the staff and management of the Ggaba Early Childhood Development Programme, and the entire community.

The organisation noted that the children had been entrusted to what should have been a safe and nurturing environment, stressing that no family should suffer such a tragic loss in a place meant to protect young lives.

NECDA described the incident as a wake-up call, pointing to serious gaps in the enforcement of safety, registration, licensing, and child protection standards as outlined in the Early Childhood Care and Education Policy.

The body has now called on all operators of childcare centres to strictly follow government regulations to ensure the safety and well-being of children.

NECDA Chairperson, Hellen Grace Namulwana, emphasized the need for increased awareness and sensitization across all childcare centres to improve standards of care.

She urged caregivers and operators to fully comply with government guidelines, noting that adherence to these standards is key to protecting children.

Meanwhile, NECDA official Aron Kirunda called on school proprietors to establish learning centres in safe and well-planned environments. He also urged the government to strengthen enforcement of existing policies to ensure full compliance.

NECDA further stressed that early childhood development remains central to Uganda’s social and economic progress, adding that strong foundations in early years are critical for achieving the country’s long-term development goals.