Katakwi, Uganda: A total of 7018 former Special Police Constables have officially transitioned into private security roles after completing intensive training, in a move authorities say will strengthen Uganda’s national security architecture.
The recruits were passed out by Inspector General of Police Abas Byakagaba on Wednesday, April 22, following a five-week training programme at the Police Training School in Ollilim, Katakwi District.
The trainees, drawn from former election Special Police Constables, have now been integrated into Private Security Organisations (PSOs) to support policing efforts across the country.
Byakagaba described the private security sector as a critical component of Uganda’s security system, particularly as first responders in safeguarding premises and communities. “From the onset, I want to observe that the private security industry in Uganda is an essential and indispensable part of our broader national security architecture,” he said.
“The private security sector serves as first responders to incidents at various premises. Your vigilance is a critical layer in our multi-layered security response.”
He noted that the transition marks a significant step in professionalising the sector and providing structured employment to thousands of trained personnel.
“Today, we witness the transition of over 7,000 patriotic Ugandans from temporary service as election Special Police Constables into a professional role in security through Private Security Organisations,” Byakagaba added.
The IGP emphasised that the partnership between the Uganda Police Force and private security firms is strategic in addressing emerging security threats.
“It is necessary to note that the partnership between UPF and the private security sector is a strategic necessity,” he said, calling for improved welfare of guards, standardised training, proper firearms management, and stronger accountability systems.
He added that as private security organisations become more capable, the police will gradually shift focus from non-core duties to more specialised operations.
“When PSOs are fully capacitated, UPF will cede non-core duties and foster synergies to achieve a secure and peaceful Uganda,” he said.
Rising Security Threats
Byakagaba warned that Uganda’s security environment is becoming increasingly complex, citing threats such as violent crime, illegal firearms, terrorism, trafficking, and cybercrime. “All of us must rise to the occasion and work collaboratively to tackle these multifaceted security challenges,” he said.
He noted that the training was designed to align private security operations with national policing standards as the sector continues to expand. “The industry is rapidly growing, a positive trajectory, but growth and responsibility must go hand in hand.”
The pass-out ceremony was attended by several senior police officials, including Director of Operations AIGP Frank Mwesigwa, Director of Human Resource Development AIGP Moses Kafeero, Director of Counter-Terrorism AIGP David Waswa Ssengendo, and Director of Logistics and Engineering AIGP James Apora.
Mwesigwa praised the initiative, describing it as a forward-looking approach to strengthening public safety. “This reflects bold leadership and a progressive approach through collaboration with private security organisations,” he said.
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