Safeguarding Policy
Last updated: 23 July 2026. This safeguarding policy is an operational standard for KAUMA Foundation Uganda. It will be reviewed with legal counsel and local authorities as the organisation grows and does not replace formal legal advice.
1. Our commitment
Kids of Africa Under Motherless Action Foundation (KAUMA) exists to restore hope for orphans, vulnerable children and families in Jinja District, Uganda. Our permitted work focuses on health, education and nurturing children. Every child we serve has the right to be safe, respected and free from abuse, exploitation and neglect.
2. Scope
This policy applies to all staff, board members, volunteers, interns, partners, visitors, contractors and anyone representing KAUMA - including online communication, photography and storytelling. It complements our programme page on Child Protection and Safeguarding.
3. Definitions
- Child: any person under 18 years of age
- Abuse: includes physical, emotional/psychological and sexual abuse, neglect, exploitation, online harm, and harmful traditional practices
- Safeguarding: proactive steps to prevent harm and to respond quickly and appropriately when concerns arise
4. Principles
- The best interests of the child come first
- Do no harm - programmes and communications must not put children at risk
- Confidentiality - information about concerns is shared only with people who need to know
- Non-discrimination - every child is protected equally
- Accountability - concerns are recorded and followed up
5. Code of conduct
Everyone representing KAUMA must:
- treat children with dignity and respect
- avoid being alone with a child in a private place whenever possible; prefer open, observable spaces
- never hit, humiliate, sexually exploit or emotionally abuse a child
- never use personal social media to contact a child privately about programme matters
- never take or share photos of children without appropriate consent and organisational approval
- never exchange gifts, money or favours with a child in ways that create dependency or risk
- report concerns promptly (see Reporting below)
6. Safer recruitment
Where roles involve contact with children, we seek references, require clear expectations in writing, and provide supervision. We do not knowingly engage people whose behaviour poses an unacceptable risk to children.
7. Photography, stories and data
Images and stories of children are published only with documented consent from a parent/guardian (or other appropriate authority), with careful consideration of dignity and safety. We avoid revealing sensitive details (for example exact home address, school name or health status) unless there is a clear, consented reason. See also our Privacy Policy.
8. Reporting concerns
Designated Safeguarding Lead: Founder & Executive Director, Yeeko Mugerwa
Email: kaumafoundationuganda1998@gmail.com
Phone (Uganda): +256774359647 / +256704043388
Anyone may report a concern - including staff, volunteers, community members, partners and children (through a trusted adult). Reports can be made in person, by phone or by email. If a child is in immediate danger, contact local emergency / child protection authorities in Jinja District without delay, and inform the Designated Safeguarding Lead as soon as it is safe to do so.
9. Response
When a concern is raised we will:
- prioritise the child’s immediate safety
- listen carefully, without promising absolute secrecy where risk remains
- record facts (who, what, when, where) factually and securely
- escalate internally to the Designated Safeguarding Lead
- refer to local authorities or other services when required or when risk is high
- support the child and relevant caregivers appropriately
Malicious false reports are taken seriously; good-faith reports are protected from retaliation.
10. Training and review
Staff and active volunteers receive induction on this policy. The policy is reviewed at least every 12 months, or sooner after a serious incident or change in law. Updates will show a new “Last updated” date.
11. Partners
Churches, donors, NGOs and other partners working with us around children are expected to respect this policy, follow local law, and report concerns. We may pause collaboration if safeguarding standards are not met.
12. Legal status
KAUMA is registered as a Community Based Organisation with Jinja District Local Government (Registration No. JDLG/04/2023/CBO/140; Permit No. 1287) and as KAUMA Foundation Uganda Limited (URSB Registration No. 80034015105296). Copies of registration documents are available on Governance and Transparency.
13. Contact
Safeguarding questions or reports: use the contacts in section 8, or our Contact page. A short overview also appears in our Safeguarding Policy Overview report.
