By John Kusolo
The Ministry of Internal Affairs has made notable progress in fulfilling commitments outlined in the NRM Manifesto (2021–2026). These commitments are centered on protecting life and property, strengthening law and order, and ensuring the security of citizens. Below is an assessment of the achievements so far as presented by General David Rubakuba Muhoozi, Minister of State for Internal Affairs on behalf of Major General (Rtd) Kahinda Otafiire, Minister of Internal Affairs:
*Implementation Overview*
General Security Situation
Peace and Stability:
The nation has maintained peace and security nationwide, supported by the dismantling of ADF terror cells and criminal gangs.
Coordination:
Enhanced collaboration with security agencies and strategic community partnerships has improved crime prevention and response.
*Crime Situation*
Crime Rates:
Annual Crime Rate (ACR) decreased from 524 to 501 per 100,000 people between 2022 and 2023. Reported cases dropped from 231,653 (2022) to 228,074 (2023), reflecting a 1.5% reduction.
*Key Strategies* :
Improved detection and investigation methods, reorganized CID operations, and stronger partnerships with judicial institutions contributed to this decline.
*Custodial Services*
Prison Population:
As of June 2024, Uganda Prisons Service housed 79,561 inmates (51.5% convicts, 47.8% remands). The approved capacity stands at 20,996, with an overcrowding rate of 378.9%.
Conviction Trends:
56.8% of convicts serve long-term sentences (over three years), while 42.2% serve short-term sentences.
*Presidential Directives on Security*
Fingerprinting of Guns:
92.2% of legal firearms have been fingerprinted using the Integrated Ballistics Information System (IBIS), enhancing forensic intelligence.
Modern Forensic Laboratory:
Investments include a DNA laboratory, toxicology unit, and digital forensics. A National DNA Databank infrastructure is under development to aid crime investigations.
CCTV Coverage:
The National CCTV Project has supported crime deterrence and investigations, with 1,700 cases analyzed leading to 316 convictions. However, gaps remain in coverage and maintenance.
Industrial Security:
Police and LDUs deployed in industrial zones have enhanced investor confidence by securing factories and parks.
Tourism Security:
Reinforced Tourism Police and SOPs have improved the safety of national parks, game reserves, and tourist facilities.
Anti-Stock Theft:
Collaborative operations in Karamoja recovered 15,158 out of 17,215 stolen livestock and apprehended 13,401 suspects.
*Institutional Infrastructure and Capacity Development*
Recruitment and Training:
Additional 11,386 personnel were recruited, raising police strength to 47,076. Refresher and specialized training programs have improved service delivery.
Police-to-Population Ratio:
Currently at 1:976, efforts to improve recruitment are hindered by population growth.
Equipment Acquisition:
Police added 420 vehicles and 1,476 motorcycles, enhancing emergency response capabilities.
Human Rights Integration:
Complaints against police dropped from 351 (2021) to 176 (2023), reflecting efforts to embed human rights in police training and operations.
Sub-County Policing Model:
Implemented in 98 sub-counties in Greater Masaka, with plans to expand to 288 additional sub-counties by end of 2024.
Anti-Human Trafficking Efforts
Victim Support:
Since 2021, the Ministry has assisted 1,226 victims with shelter, medical aid, and transportation while investigating 251 cases. Awareness campaigns have improved reporting mechanisms.
*Challenges*
Overcrowded prisons.
Limited police recruitment relative to population growth.
Maintenance issues and coverage gaps in the CCTV project.
Resource constraints in scaling up sub-county policing and forensic capabilities.
Recommendations
Expand recruitment efforts to achieve the target police-to-population ratio.
Improve prison capacity to address overcrowding.
Enhance CCTV maintenance and implement Phase III of the project.
Invest in forensic capabilities to expedite crime resolution.
Strengthen public-private partnerships for expanded CCTV integration.
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