The members of Uganda Private Security Association (TUPSA) have re-elected unopposed Mr.Grace Matsiko, as the chairman of their 426 strong private security companies’ umbrella body. Matsiko was re-elected after the members recognised his outstanding performance in the last six years.
This was during TUPSA’s Annual General Meeting held at Kati-Kati in Kampala Uganda.
At the AGM the Deputy inspector Genera of Police James Ochaya commended the private sector operators for their contribution to security and peace .
“We recognize the important roles that private security Organisations play in providing law and order, peace and security in the country, Ochaya said while opening the private security organisations AGM.
“This (Private Security role) is in conformity with the constitutional mandate of the Uganda Police Force as enshrined in the constitution of protecting lives and property, preserve law and order, prevent and deter crimes and cooperating with the civilian authority and other security organs established in the constitution and the population” he added.
The Deputy IGP said, “all in all, the Private security Organisations, help in re-inforcing the work of Police and that’s why Uganda Police is the regulatory entity in the country for the smooth operations of the private security organisations”.
Ochaya in a speech read for him by the Uganda Police Director of Interpol, Assistant Inspector General of Police, Joseph Obwona said, “the Directorate of the Uganda Police Force through the Department of Private Security and Fire Arms ensures that the private security organisations comply with the regulations”.
“The number of operating companies in the country has grown over the years and your initiative to mobilise into the association is very commendable especially in addressing issues that affect your daily operations” the Deputy IGP said.
“The Uganda Police Force will ensure that it works with the association to promote effective performance of the Private security organisations in the country. We as Uganda Police Force cognizant of the challenges and shortcomings that some of the companies face, we recognize that the environment for your operation in the country is improving and evidenced by increased or growing demand for your services as the economy improves,” he added.
“This (increased demand) calls for initiatives and cooperation as we join hands together to promote peace, security, law and order in the country”.
The association through it’s Executive Secretary, Sam Roger Wairagala appealed to government to address multiple taxation regimes the private security sector faces – yet it compliments national security as well as creating jobs for over 100,000 personnel, with majority being youths.
Albinious Twesigomwe, the Disaster Risk Reduction [DRR] Specialist ,Security Consultant & Business Coach who facilitated at the meeting noted that the successful passage of more than five resolutions and the election of a new vibrant administration marked a pivotal moment for TUPSA.
“I have no doubt that the dedication and vision of the incoming leadership will drive our association towards continued growth and success. I look forward to supporting the new administration and contributing to the advancement of our shared goals,” he said.
