Financial Capability, Quality of Life, and Re-Trafficking Vulnerability Among Women Survivors of Human Trafficking in Central Uganda: A Cross-Sectional Analysis

Author: Nkwanzi, Violet; Okech, David; Bulamba, Robert; Akello, Dorah & Nantongo, Molly

Abstract: Survivors of human trafficking in Uganda often face persistent economic insecurity and ongoing vulnerability that may undermine quality of life (QoL). Using data from a broader cross-sectional study conducted in January 2025, we examined associations between financial capability, re-trafficking vulnerability, and quality of life among 350 women survivors aged 18–35 receiving services at seven rehabilitation sites in Kampala. Multivariable linear regression showed that financial capability was positively associated with quality of life (β = 0.33, 95% CI: 0.15–0.51, p < .001), whereas re-trafficking vulnerability was negatively associated with quality of life (β = −0.86, 95% CI: −1.30 to −0.42, p < .001). The positive association weakened at higher vulnerability levels. Older age predicted lower Quality of life (β = −0.31, p = .014). Married participants had significantly higher Quality of life than unmarried women (β = 4.87, p = .001). Findings have implications for policies and interventions promoting women survivors’ well-being, protection, justice, and reintegration.

Keywords: financial capability, quality of life, re-trafficking vulnerability, survivors of trafficking