Uganda Prisons Services officers have been urged to emphasize preventive measures for infectious diseases, particularly Ebola, which poses a heightened risk for the Safety and Security Unit (SSU) given the nature of their mobile operations stretching up to border lines.
Dr. Charles Kajoba Kimuli, the Prisons Incident Commander, while addressing officers at Luzira on November 8, 2024, shared guidance on preventing and managing non-communicable diseases, such as hypertension and diabetes, encouraging optimal nutrition, stress management, and physical fitness.
“Recognizing these vulnerabilities, the Ministry of Health provided 2,000 doses of the Ebola vaccine to UPS, prioritizing staff and frontline health workers,” Kaboma said.
Kajoba highlighted that vaccination efforts are complemented by awareness campaigns aimed at educating officers on Ebola prevention, symptoms, and the importance of vaccination to the Uganda Prisons Service. He further raised awareness on HIV/AIDS prevention and safe practices, given that the SSU frequently engage in high-mobility roles across different operations.
He emphasized abstinence, faithfulness to their partners, and consistent condom use, cautioning officers against entering high-risk sexual networks.
Jackson Kwihangani, the Superintendent of Prisons (Officer in Charge of the Safety and Security Unit), welcomed the initiative, pledging to uphold the health tips and conduct monthly health talks for his team.
He urged staff to prioritize their health by undergoing regular medical check-ups.
Kwihangani extended his guidance to financial and professional conduct, advising officers on prudent financial planning and the dangers of excessive loans while encouraging them to join the Prisons SACCO for financial stability.
“Financial discipline is critical to well-being,” Kwihangani remarked.
He urged officers to make use of community savings groups and avoid financial overextension, which could compromise their focus on duty.
In an initiative aimed at strengthening health and wellness among staff, Uganda Prisons Service (UPS) conducted health sensitization for the Safety and Security Unit (SSU), reflecting a commitment to safeguarding the health of frontline officers.