The Governance and Security Programme (GSP) Secretariat handed over on November 6, 2023, to the Judiciary and other justice institutions equipment to ensure increased access to justice, improved security and protection of communities in Northern Uganda that host refugees.
The equipment, which included a motor vehicle, is part of the European Union’s (EU) Supreme Project.
Nicolas Gonze, Head of Governance and Social Inclusion at the European Union, said that the EU provided 4.7 million euros to Uganda to increase the presence and reach of Justice Law and Order Service (JLOS) frontline actors in refugee settlements and host communities.
“The equipment will enable the government to reach the mandate of the project, enhance the capacity of frontline actors, and respond to the justice needs of refugees and host communities,” said Gonze.
He noted the need to increase knowledge of rights and obligations of refugees and host communities and strengthen the coordination of Justice Law and Order Service (JLOS) actors and duty bearers for improved access to justice and protection of refugees and host communities.
Gonze called upon the development partners to collectively review progress and identify challenges to ensure proper implementation of the project.
Robert Kasande, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, extended special gratitude to the European Union for their support in the implementation of the project.
“Access to justice for refugees is at the heart of our vision to ensure access to justice for all and to leave no one behind, especially the poor and vulnerable in our communities,” Kasande said.
One pickup truck, seven PCs, and seven printers were delivered to the Judiciary on behalf of Secretary of Finance and Administration, Ms. Maureen Kasande.
Other beneficiaries of the project include the Office of the Directorate of Public Prosecutions, the Ministry of Internal Affairs, especially Community Service, the Uganda Police Force, the Uganda Human Rights Commission, Justice Centres Uganda, and the Uganda Prisons Service.