The security commanders and senior leaders from across the Bugisu Sub-region have reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining peace and stability as a cornerstone for socio-economic development in Eastern Uganda.
This was expressed during a high-level regional security and stakeholder engagement held in Mbale City which brought together officials from the security sector, political leadership and technical officers representing the six districts and Mbale City.
The Commander of the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) 3rd Infantry Division, Brig Gen Wilberforce Sserunkuma underscored the importance of such platforms in promoting accountability and reinforcing the responsibilities of those charged with ensuring peace.
“As we review the security situation, let us be reminded of our primary roles and exhibit the highest standards of professionalism and integrity,” Brig Gen Sserunkuma said.
Brig Gen Sserunkuma called for enhanced collaboration between security agencies and local leaders, urging timely coordination and efficient resource mobilisation to ensure swift and effective responses, saying that they must stay alert, neutral and responsive.
Brig Gen Sserunkuma commended the Bugisu community for their resilience and patriotism and encouraged the preservation of these values, especially as the country approaches the election season. He stressed that true peace encompasses justice, dialogue, and mutual respect, not merely the absence of conflict.
While speaking in the same meeting, the Mbale Resident City Commissioner, Hajjati Nasike Asumin, said that the city remains largely peaceful, with isolated security incidents being effectively managed and she reiterated her office’s commitment to monitoring the implementation of key government programmes including road infrastructure, healthcare, and livelihood projects such as the Parish Development Model (PDM) and Emyooga.
The Commandant of the Anti-Stock Theft Unit (ASTU), Francis Chemusto highlighted successes in implementing Executive Order No. 3 of May 2023 which involve recovering illegal firearms, reducing livestock theft and combatting the illegal charcoal trade and advised livestock traders to comply with established legal procedures to help curb commercial livestock theft in the region.
The Chief Warden of the Mt Elgon Conservation Area, Samuel Amanya urged greater stakeholder involvement in conservation efforts and the protection of tourists and revealed that the National Park had reclaimed 420 acres of land through mechanised efforts and announced a planned tour for community leaders living near the park boundaries, with support from the Attorney General’s Office to address boundary issues.
The Elgon Regional Police Commander Otim Bosco, attributed a notable reduction in crime to improved coordination via a joint operations centre, the success of community policing initiatives, and the rollout of a sub-county policing model and urged District Police Commanders to remain vigilant in protecting citizens and property.
Chief Magistrate Awidi Suzan of Mbale highlighted the benefits of plea bargaining through Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) and pledged continued support in enhancing judicial access and efficiency.
The Mbale City Mayor His Worship Namugali Kassim, called for unity, prompt response, and strengthened collaboration among all stakeholders to preserve order across the region.
The meeting concluded with a resolution to implement harmonised security strategies ahead of, during and after the upcoming election period.
The meeting was attended by the Deputy Division Commander, Col Allan Kyangungu, the Resident District Commissioners, LCV Chairpersons, judicial officers and senior security officials.
