Resilience Among Survivors of Human Trafficking in Uganda: A Mixed Methods Study

Despite increased awareness of the psychological impacts of human trafficking, limited research in sub-Saharan Africa and Uganda has examined how survivors recover and adapt. Resilience, a dynamic process shaped by personal, relational, and structural factors, offers a strengths-based lens to understand post-trafficking experiences. This mixed-methods study explored the forms and sources of resilience among female trafficking survivors in Uganda. Quantitative data were collected from 350 women aged 18 to 35 receiving services from two NGOs: Uganda Youth Development Link and Set Her Free. Resilience was measured using the 10-item Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale (CD-RISC-10), with descriptive and bivariate analyses conducted to explore patterns and associations. Qualitative data from 25 in-depth interviews were analyzed inductively using Braun and Clarke's thematic approach. The average resilience score was 23.4 (SD = 6.8); only 18.3% of participants scored ≥30, indicating higher levels of resilience-related capacities as measured by the CD-RISC-10. Older women and those affiliated with the Anglican faith exhibited significantly higher resilience-related capacity score (p < .05), while no significant differences were observed by marital status or education. Thematic findings revealed five key sources of resilience: inner strength and self-motivation, emotional and relational support, vocational training and economic empowerment, belonging and community connection, and future-oriented hope. Survivors described drawing strength from self-belief, family, faith, peer networks, and practical skill-building opportunities. These findings highlight that resilience among survivors is shaped by both internal coping capacities and external support systems. Trauma-informed, survivor-centered interventions that integrate psychosocial care, economic empowerment, and community-based support can foster long-term resilience and recovery. A culturally grounded, strengths-based approach is essential for effective reintegration and prevention of re-trafficking.