The officers of Uganda Prisons Service (UPS) have been trained on how to manage violent extremist prisoners, prevent radicalization, and safeguard human rights in prisons.
The training was organized in collaboration with the Global Counter-Terrorism Initiative (GCIC), the European Union in Uganda, and human rights advocate Lesa Nyambe.
According to a statement released by the UPS, the officers were drawn from the Kigezi, Kooki, Southern, and South Western regions, and they have been equipped with skills to counter violent extremism in prisons.
The training encompassed a wide range of topics essential for effective prison management and rehabilitation.
“Participants gained a thorough understanding of violent extremism, including its definitions, causes, and consequences,” read part of the statement.
The statement further noted that emphasis was placed on the factors and indicators of radicalization to violence, alongside strategies for prevention.
“A critical component of the training was the focus on human rights standards in prisons,” the statement added.
Officials of the European Union Uganda highlighted the importance of treating prisoners with dignity and respect, aligning with international standards for prisoner treatment and rehabilitation.
The training also covered risk assessment techniques and prisoner classification, ensuring that personnel are equipped to successfully manage a variety of inmate populations.
This initiative marks a proactive approach by the Ugandan government and its partners to address the complex issues surrounding violent extremism and ensure that human rights are upheld within the prison system.
