The Uganda Prison Service (UPS), a government agency under the Ministry of Internal Affairs, is mandated to contribute to the protection and development of society by providing safe, secure, and humane custody of offenders while prioritizing human rights in its correctional programs. Led by the Commissioner General of Prisons, Can. Dr. Johnson Byabashaija, the UPS has undergone significant transformation since 1986, aligning with Uganda's broader national development strategy.
This period of growth has strengthened its role in enhancing security, rehabilitation, and socioeconomic progress, with the goal of transforming every prisoner into a productive, economically viable, and law-abiding citizen. The UPS workforce has seen remarkable expansion, growing from just 2,000 personnel in 1986 to over 14,000 dedicated staff today.
Infrastructure development has been equally impressive, with the number of prison units increasing from 45 in 1986 to 269 across the country. A standout achievement is the construction of a second maximum-security prison in Kitalya, widely regarded as one of the best in the East and Central African region.
Staff housing has also significantly improved, rising from 10% coverage in 1986 to 75% today, with 6,900 permanent houses countrywide. This progress, largely due to a low-cost housing strategy championed by His Excellency, the President of Uganda, enhances staff welfare, reduces financial burdens, boosts morale, and promotes operational efficiency.
