Uganda Prisons Service boosts counter-terrorism efforts with UNODC and EU support

By Emmanuel Sekago

Uganda Prisons Service (UPS), in collaboration with the United Nations Office of Drugs and Crime (UNODC) and the European Union (EU), has successfully concluded a comprehensive Training of Trainers (ToT) course aimed at enhancing the management of Violent Extremist Prisoners (VEPs) and preventing radicalisation within the prison system.

The closing ceremony, held at the Imperial Royale Hotel in Kampala, was presided over by Commissioner General of Prisons, Canon Dr. Johnson Byabashaija. Over a five-day period, 36 prison officers were trained in methods to counter violent extremism, gaining valuable skills and knowledge to be disseminated across prison stations nationwide.

In his address, Dr. Byabashaija congratulated the officers on their successful completion of the course, emphasizing the significance of the training. “I have no doubt that the skills and knowledge acquired will be beneficial to you and other Prisons Staff yet to be trained,” he stated.

He also extended his gratitude to the UNODC and the EU for their crucial support in this initiative. “UPS is proud of this course, and we are determined to provide more capacity-building opportunities for our staff for growth and development.”

Ms. Sharon Nyambe, the UNODC Head of Office in Kampala, provided insights into the background of the training and highlighted the ongoing partnership between UNODC and UPS. She emphasized the importance of sustained efforts in countering violent extremism and the positive impact such collaborations can have on prison management and security.

Commissioner of Prisons (Safety and Security Operations), Mr. Simon Wansadha, outlined future plans for further training.

He confirmed that the initial 36 trained officers would lead the training of over 400 additional staff members. “Gate keepers, receptionists, clerks, station orderlies, incharge Bomas, and other sensitive officers will be targeted as part of the PCVE in all Prisons Units,” Wansadha noted.

He also mentioned that developments concerning the management of violent extremist prisoners would involve collaboration with other security agencies.

Ms. Brenda Sana, Commissioner of Prisons (Commandant of the Prisons Academy and Training School), echoed these sentiments, highlighting the ongoing commitment to improving prison management and ensuring the safety and security of all Ugandans through professional and well-trained prison staff.

The initiative reflects Uganda’s broader strategy to combat violent extremism and radicalization, particularly within the prison system. The collaboration between UPS, UNODC, and the EU underscores the global commitment to addressing these challenges through training, capacity building, and international cooperation.