In response to a sharp rise in Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) cases, 468 reported in just three months, security personnel from six districts of the Greater Masaka region have received specialised training to better handle such cases, including human trafficking. Led by OKOA Refuge, the initiative targeted police officers, prison wardens, and UPDF personnel from Masaka, Lwengo, Ssembabule, Lyantonde, Rakai, and Mbarara. The training aims to equip frontline responders with the skills and sensitivity needed to support survivors and pursue justice effectively.
Officials like ASP Raymond Ayebare highlighted the alarming case numbers and lack of public awareness in Rakai, while Steven Ssemanda acknowledged that even some officers are perpetrators, calling for the program to be expanded to Kampala. Regional Police Commander Ezra Tugume urged trainees to apply their knowledge on the ground and restore public trust, while Prisons Commander Robert Kibikwangu assured continued fair treatment of all inmates.
