A major corruption investigation has been launched into a Shs26.586 billion contract for the maintenance of Uganda’s national CCTV surveillance system. New documents have revealed how the contract was awarded, how the money was planned to be used, and the growing concerns surrounding its implementation.
According to procurement records, the Uganda Police Force signed an agreement on June 6, 2024, with M/S Dealan Associates (U) Ltd for the maintenance and support of the country’s CCTV network. The contract was issued under Procurement Reference No. UPF/NCONS/2023-2024/CFC/000015. It was signed on behalf of the Uganda Police Force by Police Undersecretary Aggrey Wunyi, who is currently on forced leave, and witnessed by Police legal officer Robert Mukasa from the Procurement and Disposal Unit. On the side of the company, the agreement was signed by Managing Director Barbra Katisi.
The contract was meant to cover a wide range of services needed to keep the CCTV system running smoothly. These included hardware support, software licensing and upgrades, technical support, operational tools, maintenance services, and supply of consumable materials. In total, the agreement was valued at Shs26.586 billion, tax inclusive.
The funds were divided into different categories. Hardware support services were allocated Shs7.83 billion, while software subscription and support services were set at Shs7.57 billion. Operational tools and equipment were valued at Shs3.65 billion, operation and maintenance services at Shs2.28 billion, and consumable materials at Shs1.18 billion. The arrangement was designed to ensure that Uganda’s CCTV infrastructure remained functional and up to date.
The CCTV system itself is one of the country’s largest security investments. It was developed as part of a partnership between the Government of Uganda and Chinese technology company Huawei. The system was introduced to improve national security by helping police prevent crime, investigate incidents, and monitor activity in real time. A total of 5,709 cameras were installed across the country in two phases.
However, changes in international relations affected the project. After Huawei was impacted by sanctions from the United States and the European Union in 2019, government reportedly shifted maintenance responsibilities to local companies, including Dealan Associates.
Later, challenges emerged around funding and payment. Reports indicate that a funding gap delayed payments to the contractor until additional funds were secured through engagement with the Ministry of Finance. This led to the release of about Shs31.37 billion to support the project.
Despite this, concerns arose over how the payment process was handled. Presidential communications have pointed to allegations that some officials may have attempted to influence or frustrate payments through improper demands. These claims have since become part of a wider investigation involving several individuals linked to the project.
As investigations continue, some officials connected to the contract have been placed on administrative leave. The case has drawn significant attention because of the size of the contract and the importance of the CCTV system to national security.
At the same time, the CCTV network has faced several operational challenges, including technical failures, vandalism, connectivity problems, and damage caused by infrastructure works. These issues have increased the need for constant maintenance and technical support.
The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are expected to review how the contract was awarded, how funds were managed, and whether proper procedures were followed throughout the process.
