The Uganda Human Rights Commission (UHRC) has demonstrated its commitment to being present where human rights issues arise, with a high-level inspection visit to Nakapiripirit Government Prison.
The visit is part of the Commission’s continuous oversight programme in the Karamoja Sub-region, and reflects its constitutional duty to visit places of detention, listen to both inmates and staff, and work with stakeholders to promote and protect human rights.
The delegation was headed by the Chairperson, Hon. Mariam Wangadya*. She was accompanied by the Secretary to the Commission, Mr. Kamadi Byonabye, and Members of the Commission: Hon. Shifrah Lukwago, Hon. Crispin Kaheru, Hon. Jacklet Atuhaire Rwabukurukuru, Hon. Col. (Rtd.) Steven Basaliza, and Hon. Simeo Muwanga Nsubuga.
Also present were the Director of Regional Services, Ms. Sarah Nakhumitsa; the Head of the Moroto Regional Office, Mr. Paul Piramoe, who interpreted for the inmates; and other Commission officials.
LISTENING FIRST
At the heart of the visit was direct engagement. The Commission held face-to-face discussions with prison officers and inmates, creating space for them to speak openly about their experiences and their needs.
Every issue raised was carefully recorded for follow-up with the appropriate authorities a sign, officials said, of a Commission that does not just visit, but follows through.
PROTECTING CHILDREN
One of the most touching moments of the visit was the Commission’s focus on children living with their mothers in detention.
The Chairperson spoke passionately about the best interests of the child, urging fathers of children aged two years and above to collect their children and raise them at home, where they can grow in a safe and nurturing environment.
It was a clear message: even behind prison walls, the rights and dignity of children must come first.
RESTORING DIGNITY THROUGH SPORT
The inmates also spoke about the importance of recreation-of having something constructive and healthy to do with their time.
In a gesture that drew smiles across the facility, Hon. Shifrah Lukwago donated balls to the inmates to facilitate sports and other leisure activities.
The donation is about more than play. It is about dignity, mental wellbeing, and giving inmates a chance to use their time constructively during incarceration.
A COMMISSION PRESENT ON THE GROUND
The Nakapiripirit visit forms part of the Commission’s regular oversight tours of its regional and field offices across the country.
These engagements allow the UHRC to interact with staff and stakeholders, identify concerns early, and reinforce efforts to promote and protect human rights for all.
Through such visits, the Commission reaffirmed its promise: to listen carefully, to document findings, and to engage duty bearers-so that no person held in detention is overlooked.
What all these engagements do is to depict and portray UHRC for what it is namely a Commission that listens. A Commission that acts. A Commission present on the ground. (For comments on this story, get back to us on 0705579994 [WhatsApp line], 0779411734 & 041 4674611 or email us at mulengeranews@gmail.com).
