President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni bestowed the esteemed Diamond Jubilee medals upon five exceptional Uganda Prisons Officers during the National Heroes Day celebrations held on June 9, 2024, in Gomba District. The President recognized these officers for their unwavering bravery, loyalty, and impressive dedication to service.
President Museveni expressed his admiration for the officers’ commitment to upholding the safety and security of the nation.
The distinguished officers, who collectively contributed decades of service to the Uganda Prisons Service, were lauded for their exceptional contributions towards maintaining the country’s safety and security.
“Their actions exemplify the true spirit of heroism and service,” said the president.
One of the honored recipients, Johnson Odur Munu, served as a Retired Principal Officer I from 1980 to 2020. His outstanding performance in ensuring the safety and security of prisoners, along with his discipline and professionalism, earned him recognition as a role model among his peers.
Chief Warder Grade I Alfred Chandia of UG. Prison GiliGili enlisted in 1993 and demonstrated remarkable courage during the ADF attacks on Fort Portal Prisons in 1999. His actions ensured the safety of inmates and foiled the attempts of the rebels.
Chief Warder Grade II Henry Damulira, based at Prisons Headquarters in Kampala, joined the service in 2001. He exhibited extraordinary bravery during the attacks on Luzira Prisons Complex in 2006, even sustaining bullet wounds while ensuring the safety of staff and inmates.
The Diamond Jubilee medals reflect Uganda’s deep appreciation for the sacrifices made by its security personnel who work tirelessly to maintain peace and stability throughout the nation.
Retired Chief Warder Grade III Olivier Kabajungu, who served from 1982 to 2022, displayed invaluable bravery and unwavering dedication while countering ADF attacks in Fort Portal Prison. He played a vital role in securing prisoners and rescuing others from captivity.
Lastly, the late Sergeant Warder Johnson Oala, who joined the service in 1988, sadly passed away in 2000. He demonstrated exceptional courage during the ADF attacks on Fort Portal Prisons in 1999, ensuring the safety of prisoners and rescuing them from rebel captivity.
These five exceptional officers stood as shining examples of heroism amidst challenging circumstances. Their notable contributions in maintaining peace and security have left an indelible mark, inspiring future generations of Prison officers to follow in their footsteps.