Uganda’s New Approach to Private Security Regulation
Uganda has taken a major step in reshaping its approach to private security by officially placing the training of private security guards under the control of the Uganda Police Force (UPF). This policy shift aims to enhance national security and prevent the spread of what officials refer to as “liberalized” private militias. The move comes after years of debate over the regulation of private security organizations (PSOs) and their growing influence within the country.
The initiative was announced by the Minister of State for Internal Affairs, Gen. David Muhoozi, during a session with Parliament’s Committee on Defence and Internal Affairs. He highlighted that the government is moving away from a hands-off approach to private security, emphasizing the need for stricter oversight and standardized training.
Under the proposed regulatory changes, all private security guards will be required to undergo training either at police training schools or through police instructors stationed at accredited PSO facilities. This marks a significant shift from the previous system, where private security companies operated with relatively little government intervention.
Currently, a group of 7,085 trainees is undergoing instruction at various police training schools across the country. The training, which is funded by taxpayers, is expected to conclude on April 24, 2026. According to Minister Muhoozi, this initiative is aimed at ensuring quality and standardization in the training of private security personnel.
“We want to desist from liberalism on security companies and maintain stringent regulation,” he said. “As we speak, we have over 7,000 undergoing training by the police free of charge to ensure quality standardized training.”
This decision is driven by several concerns raised during the committee session. Uganda currently has approximately 82,000 private security guards—far more than the national police force. This has raised fears about oversight, coordination, and accountability within the sector. Additionally, there are growing concerns about the unauthorized duplication of police uniforms by some private firms, which has led to public confusion and increased security risks.
To address these issues, the police will retain strict authority over the approval of all PSO uniforms. In addition, the government is introducing a “strict licensing regime” covering both firearms and uniforms to ensure that private security organizations do not evolve into a domestic threat.
Addressing potential conflicts of interest, Minister Muhoozi emphasized that the police have a constitutional mandate to provide internal security and regulate all entities authorized to carry arms. While the police have historically regulated PSOs, the new approach represents a clear transition from passive oversight to active professionalization of the industry.
Members of Parliament welcomed the initiative as a positive step but stressed the need for a comprehensive legal framework to support the reforms. They called for Parliament to enact a dedicated law that will provide long-term clarity and stability for the sector.
Minister Muhoozi also revealed that a standardized training curriculum has already been developed. This curriculum is expected to enhance professionalism, improve service quality, and address critical security challenges while boosting public confidence. It will also ensure compliance with legal requirements and equip guards with essential skills in conflict resolution, surveillance, and emergency response.
Key Points of the Policy Shift
- Training Oversight: All private security guards must now undergo training through police institutions or instructors.
- Uniform Regulation: The police will retain authority over the approval of PSO uniforms to prevent misuse.
- Licensing Regime: A strict licensing system will be introduced for firearms and uniforms to ensure safety and compliance.
- Legal Framework: Parliament is urged to pass a dedicated law to support the reforms and provide long-term stability.
- Curriculum Development: A standardized training program is in place to improve professionalism and service quality.
This new policy reflects Uganda’s commitment to maintaining control over its security landscape while ensuring that private security companies operate within clearly defined boundaries. As the training program progresses, it will be crucial to monitor its impact on both the security sector and public trust.
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