The Inspector General of Police (IGP), Abas Byakagaba, has successfully concluded a three-day official tour in Uganda’s Rwenzori East and West regions. The visit, which involved senior police officers, focused on strengthening security, community engagement, and collaboration with local leaders.
One of the tour’s highlights was a courtesy visit to the Tooro Kingdom Palace at Karuzika in Fort Portal City. IGP Byakagaba was warmly welcomed by the Rt. Hon. Prime Minister, Rwomire Calvin Armstrong Akiiki, who represented His Majesty, Omukama Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru IV.
During the visit, the IGP commended the strong partnership between the Uganda Police Force and the Tooro Kingdom. He emphasized that continued collaboration is crucial for maintaining security and promoting community-centered policing across the region.
In the afternoon, IGP Byakagaba convened a meeting with key district security stakeholders. The session brought together local government officials, religious leaders, community opinion leaders, officers from sister security agencies, and political representatives from districts within the Rwenzori policing regions.
At the meeting, the IGP outlined the Uganda Police Force’s plan to make the Rwenzori region a model for the sub-county policing initiative. This program is part of a nationwide effort to strengthen community policing and ensure that citizens feel safer and more connected to law enforcement.
He assured stakeholders that additional police officers and resources would be deployed to the region to guarantee the initiative’s success. Byakagaba emphasized that adequately staffing police units and providing necessary tools are vital steps toward effective policing.
The IGP also called on district leaders to actively support and cooperate with the police. He stressed that community ownership of police programs is essential for sustainable security efforts and for fostering trust between law enforcement and residents.
“This partnership between local authorities, community leaders, and the Uganda Police Force is key to maintaining law and order,” Byakagaba noted. He urged everyone to engage in dialogue, report criminal activity, and participate in programs designed to prevent crime.
Community leaders in attendance welcomed the IGP’s visit, describing it as a positive step toward addressing security challenges. They expressed hope that the sub-county policing model would enhance safety, reduce crime, and build stronger ties between the police and residents.
As the three-day tour concluded, IGP Byakagaba reaffirmed the Uganda Police Force’s commitment to community policing. He pledged that the Rwenzori region would serve as a benchmark for other regions, demonstrating how collaboration, resources, and leadership can create a safer and more secure environment for all Ugandans.
