The Uganda Prisons Service, in collaboration with the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) and the European Union, has launched a comprehensive training program for prisons officers aimed at strengthening efforts to manage violent extremist prisoners, prevent radicalization to violence, and enhance human rights in prisons.
The five-day training, which commenced on June 24, 2024, at the Imperial Royale Hotel in Kampala, has brought together 80 participants from various prisons in the Kampala Extra, Central, and North Central Regions, including Upper, Murchison Bay, SSU, Luzira Women, Kampala Remand, Kigo, Kitalya Mini Max, Kitalya Farm, Kasangati, Butuntumula, and Nakasongola Prisons.
Commissioner of Prisons (Commandant – PATS) Brenda Sana presided over the opening ceremony, emphasizing the importance of proper rehabilitation and reformation of Violent Extremist Prisoners (VEPs). She cautioned the officers on maintaining integrity while working in prisons and encouraged them to ask questions, share, and learn from each other during the training.
The training program is equipping prison officers with essential skills to prevent radicalization and violent extremism in prisons. The officers are learning how to identify and support vulnerable inmates, challenge harmful ideologies, and create a safe and secure environment.
They are also gaining knowledge on alternative narratives, counseling techniques, and rehabilitation strategies to counter extremist influences.
This initiative is part of a broader effort by the Government of Uganda, Uganda Prisons, UNODC, and the European Union in Uganda to enhance prison management, improve staff capacity, and promote inmate rehabilitation.
The ultimate goal is to reduce the risk of violence and terrorism and promote safer communities. By understanding the signs of radicalization and how to address them, prison officers can play a crucial role in preventing the spread of violent extremism and keeping communities safe.
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