By Brian Keitira
Since his appointment as Commissioner General of Prisons in 2005, Dr. Johnson Byabashaija has exemplified transformational leadership within the Uganda Prisons Service. His innovative approach to prison management has not only transformed the lives of inmates but also enhanced the overall effectiveness of the correctional system in Uganda.
President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, who entrusted Dr. Byabashaija with this significant responsibility, made a decision that has proven to be beneficial for both the service and the nation. Dr. Byabashaija’s leadership style is characterized by a profound commitment to human rights and rehabilitation.
Under his guidance, the Uganda Prisons Service has implemented various reform initiatives aimed at improving conditions for inmates, promoting rehabilitation programs, and ensuring that prisoners are treated with dignity. These initiatives reflect the core principles of restorative justice, emphasizing the need for personal growth and reintegration into society rather than solely punitive measures.
One of the most notable achievements during Dr. Byabashaija’s tenure has been the successful introduction of vocational training programs. These initiatives equip inmates with practical skills and knowledge, empowering them to reintegrate into society upon release.Forexample the skilled inmates of Uganda prisons service crafted high quality, durable furniture for All saints Cathedral’s alter which included, the podium,pulpit,executive bishops’s chair, choir section,clergy seats,VIP section, presidents chair,baptism pool and a fully furnished clergy changying rooms. All these were donated by Can Dr Byabasheija as a form of corporate social responsibility. By focusing on rehabilitation rather than punishment, Dr. Byabashaija has reduced recidivism rates from an estimated 40% to approximately 25%, significantly contributing to safer communities.
Uganda’s prison farms have emerged as a crucial component of the agricultural sector, contributing to crop and livestock production. Prison Farms cultivate a variety of crops such as maize, beans, and cotton, while also raising livestock, including cattle and pigs. Uganda prisons majored in commercial maize farming and cotton. UPS is the biggest producer of cotton in uganda which has boosted the textile industry with prisons ginneries supplying cotton. This due to the fact that over 28 stations across the country grow cotton with over 2500 acres spread all over.This resonates well with the president’s message of wealth creation.In 2023 alone, the farms produced over 400 tons of various crops, utilized for both inmate consumption and external sales, generating approximately UGX 2.5 billion ($670,000) in revenue for the prisons. This revenue not only supports the prison service but also reduces the state’s food procurement expenditure by about 15%.
The agricultural output from prison farms not only feeds inmates but also alleviates food scarcity in surrounding communities, thus enhancing local food security. In 2023, it was reported that prison farms contributed over 10% of local agricultural produce in their respective regions, positively impacting food availability in uganda as well as advancing the nation’s agricultural landscape.
Under Dr. Byabashaija’s leadership, Uganda Prisons has made significant strides in corporate social responsibility. In November 2024, Dr. Byabashaija donated all furniture needed for the opening of All Saints Church, demonstrating the prison service’s commitment to community engagement and development. Other initiatives include outreach programs that assist vulnerable populations, showcasing how Uganda Prisons strives to positively impact society beyond incarceration.
Educational opportunities available to inmates have significantly improved, facilitating personal and societal reintegration. Inmates at various correctional centers have successfully completed Universal Certificate of Education (UCE) and Uganda Advanced Certificate of Education (UACE) examinations. The government reported a remarkable 40% increase in inmates attaining these educational qualifications over the past five years, rising from 1,500 successful candidates in 2018 to over 2,100 in 2023.
Notably, on November 28, 2024, 18 inmates, staff and ex prisoners at Luzira Prison graduated with degrees in law, reflecting Uganda Prisons’ commitment to rehabilitating inmates through education and providing them with tools to succeed post-incarceration.
The professional development of prison staff is crucial for effective management and operational success. The introduction of specialized courses for both junior and senior staff at the Prisons Academy and the staff college at Bwebajja has enhanced the skill set of the personnel. As of 2024, over 518 staff members have received advanced training in correctional management, creating a more competent workforce ready to implement progressive reforms.In addition to the above,there has been an enhanced capacity of 3442 prison officers through specialised training courses in the last three years.
Since taking over from Mr. Etima in 2005, the number of personnel has increased from 5,000 to over 8,000 officers, comprising both men and women. This expansion reflects a commitment to improving the prison service’s operational capacity and effectiveness, leading to a better-managed correctional environment.
Significant improvements in staff welfare have been implemented to ensure job satisfaction and efficacy. There has been an ongoing initiative to improve housing for prison staff, with over 1,000 new housing units constructed across various locations in the country. It is important to note that so far 15577 staff housing units have been constructed since FY 2020/2021 increasing the population of staff properly housed from 31.8% to 48.9%.In addition to the above is the fact that over 582 staff houses are under construction at various locations like, Kagadi,Erute,Amita,Ruimi,Masaka,Muinaina, etc and by 2025 most prisons wards will be complete. Also important to note is the fact that under the auspices of Dr Johnson Byabasheija,salaries have seen adjustments that reflect the rising cost of living, with an increase of 20% enacted in 2023, and a structured promotion system has ensured that hardworking personnel are recognized and rewarded for their service.
The health of inmates has been prioritized, notably in facilities like Murchison Bay Prison. Improved medical facilities have been established, including the recruitment of qualified health personnel, which has led to a 30% reduction in referrals to external hospitals over the last year. The availability of essential medicines has increased by 40%, ensuring that inmates receive prompt and adequate medical attention. They have also increased community awareness,health literacy,disease prevention, as well as reducing the incidence and prevalence of communicable diseases.Forexample both staff and inmates are always sensitized on health matters particulary HIV/AIDS and Uganda Prisons Service provides needs based care programs aimed at maintaining the well being of incarcerated persons. The competence of prisons medical services was evident on how they managed the outbreak of Covid-19.
In conclusion, President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni’s decision to trust Dr. Johnson Byabashaija with leading the Uganda Prisons Service has proven to be a visionary choice. Dr. Byabashaija’s transformational leadership has ushered in an era of reform that not only enhances the lives of inmates but also benefits society at large. Extending his contract would not only recognize his past accomplishments but also solidify the progress made within the Uganda Prisons Service, ensuring a brighter future for all citizens of Uganda.
The Writer is a Senior Cadre and works with Office Of The National Chairman NRM.
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