Uganda Prisons Service: Enhancing Safety, Health, and Financial Discipline among Officers

*By John Kusolo*

The Uganda Prisons Service (UPS) continues to play a vital role in upholding law, order, and rehabilitation in society. With a commitment to safety and security across all correctional facilities, UPS ensures that the welfare of both inmates and officers is maintained through proactive health, financial, and security initiatives. The organization’s Safety and Security Unit, led by Superintendent of Prisons Mr. Jackson Kwihangani, embodies this commitment, focusing on safeguarding officers, inmates, and society at large.

Recognizing the importance of health, Mr. Kwihangani recently introduced a program to enhance the health standards of officers within the Prisons Service. He emphasized the importance of preventive care, advising his team to prioritize regular medical checkups. To support this, he pledged to conduct monthly health talks aimed at equipping officers with essential health tips. “Regular medical checkups are crucial to maintaining the physical and mental well-being required to fulfill our duties effectively,” he highlighted.

These health talks are not only informative but also serve to strengthen camaraderie and morale within the unit. By promoting physical and mental health, UPS fosters an environment in which officers are empowered to perform their duties at peak effectiveness, reflecting positively on the overall functioning of the Service.

Financial discipline among officers is another area where Mr. Kwihangani provides leadership. Recognizing the challenges that financial strain can place on officers’ performance and well-being, he advises his team on prudent financial planning. He cautioned against excessive loans, emphasizing that financial overextension can detract from an officer’s focus and professionalism on duty. "Financial discipline is critical to well-being," he remarked, encouraging officers to consider saving through community groups and the Prisons Savings and Credit Cooperative Organization (SACCO).

The Prisons SACCO serves as a secure financial support network, helping officers build financial stability through savings and affordable loans. Mr. Kwihangani’s guidance aims to encourage officers to be financially responsible and to consider long-term goals, thereby enhancing both their personal welfare and overall morale within UPS.

With the festive season on the horizon, Mr. Kwihangani underscored the importance of vigilance and strict adherence to security protocols across all facilities. The Officer in Charge urged his team to reinforce safety measures, ensuring a secure environment for both inmates and the general public. As UPS facilities often face unique security challenges during the holidays, this emphasis on proactive security practices is timely and essential.

The Safety and Security Unit, established in 2015, has made significant strides in developing a professional, well-trained team that is equipped to handle the responsibilities of maintaining peace within prison environments. This unit’s mandate extends beyond the prison walls, reflecting UPS’s role as an institution that safeguards the larger community.

Reflecting on the progress made since the unit’s founding, Mr. Kwihangani noted with pride the professionalism and resilience exhibited by his officers. He acknowledged that maintaining safety standards is no easy task but expressed confidence in the team's capacity to uphold these standards. The focus on resilience is especially pertinent as UPS continues to address modern challenges, such as overcrowding and resource limitations, with a steadfast commitment to its mission.

Through dedicated leadership, Uganda Prisons Service remains a critical institution within Uganda’s justice system, embodying the values of discipline, professionalism, and resilience. Mr. Kwihangani’s initiatives—ranging from health awareness to financial discipline and security preparedness—demonstrate a holistic approach to the welfare and effectiveness of UPS personnel.

As Uganda Prisons Service moves forward, its commitment to safety, health, and financial stability stands as a testament to its dedication to both its officers and the public it serves. Under the stewardship of leaders like Mr. Kwihangani, UPS continues to evolve, setting a high standard for correctional facilities across the region and contributing to a safer and more disciplined society.