Remarks at Multi-Stakeholder Round Table Discussion on the Findings of the Rapid Threat Assessment Report on Violent Extremism in Uganda

Salutations:

• Honourable Minister of Internal Affairs, General Kahinda Otafiire;
• H.E. Jan Sadek, Ambassador, Delegation of the European Union to Uganda;
• Lt. General Joseph Musanyufu, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Internal Affairs;
• Brigadier Dominic Twesigomwe, Commandant - National Counter Terrorism Center;
• Ms. Ashita Mittal, UNODC Regional Representative for Eastern Africa;
• Ms. Sharon Nyambe, Head of Office – United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), Uganda;
• AIGP Wasswa David - Director Counter Terrorism, Uganda Police Force;
• Representatives of Diplomatic Missions in Uganda;
• Representatives of UN Agencies; 
• Representatives of Ministries, Departments and Agencies; 
• Religious Leaders from different Communities;
• All Stakeholders and Distinguished Guests;
• Ladies and Gentlemen.

I am honoured to join you today for this critical round table discussion on the findings of the Rapid Threat Assessment Report on Violent Extremism in Uganda. This gathering serves as a reminder of our shared responsibility to confront and address the pressing challenges posed by violent extremism in our communities. Confronting it requires coordinated, sustained, and holistic efforts across all sectors of society.

Let me begin by extending my deep appreciation to the Government of Uganda, the European Union, and the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) for spearheading this critical initiative. The collaboration we witness here is a testament to our collective resolve to uphold peace, security, and sustainable development, not only for Uganda but for the entire region. 

The United Nations has a clear mission to promote peace, human rights, and development in line with the Sustainable Development Goals. In Uganda, the United Nations has stood as a committed partner on the country’s development journey, aligned with Vision 2040 and the National Development Plans. Our work spans various sectors, including human rights and peacebuilding, poverty alleviation, gender equality, and climate change, all of which are crucial pillars in the fight against violent extremism.

As the Resident Coordinator, I have the responsibility to ensure that the collective efforts of the UN system are coherent, coordinated, and firmly rooted in Uganda’s national priorities. At the heart of our work is SDG 16, which emphasizes peace, justice, and strong institutions as the foundation of sustainable development. Without these, progress on all other goals is compromised.

The United Nations Development System (UNDS) in Uganda,  comprised of twenty-nine (29) agencies, works tirelessly to strengthen governance, the rule of law, and community resilience. By supporting both the Government and civil society, we aim to create a society that is inclusive, just, and united. Our work is closely aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework for Uganda 2021–2025, which outlines the UN's collective response to the country’s development needs and the realization of the 2030 Agenda.

The UN recognises that violent extremism is not just a security issue - it is deeply rooted in broader development challenges like inequality, poverty, and limited opportunities for young people.  The vulnerabilities that fuel have been exacerbated by various factors such as the COVID-19 pandemic which prolonged school closures as well as economic hardship. Extremist groups have skillfully exploited these challenges, using online platforms and sophisticated methods to recruit vulnerable individuals.  

Therefore, the UN’s approach is to collaborate with the Government of Uganda to tackle these root causes focusing on three key areas:

1. Human Rights and Social Inclusion: Where we strengthen our partnerships to ensure that all Ugandans, especially those who are marginalised, have access to justice, social services, and economic opportunities. Addressing inequality is a critical component in preventing radicalization and building societal resilience.
2. Youth Empowerment: Building on the UN Youth Strategy 2030 in Uganda, we are equipping young people with the skills, opportunities, and hope they need to resist extremist narratives. Youth engagement is not just an option; it is essential for safeguarding our future Gender Equality, where the UN system also emphasises gender-responsive interventions. 
3. Gender Equality: Women and girls are often disproportionately affected by violent extremism. However, they are also powerful agents of change. Through gender-responsive programming, the UN system amplifies the voices of women and supports their pivotal role in peacebuilding and preventing radicalization and community resilience.

While the government and institutions have made remarkable strides, it is critical that we actively engage local leaders, youth groups, faith-based organisations, and civil society in these efforts. Communities themselves are at the front lines of combating radicalisation, and it is only through their empowerment that we can build the resilience necessary to prevent violent extremism from taking root.

One effective way to strengthen this community resilience is by fostering trust between law enforcement agencies and the communities they serve. Initiatives like community policing can help shift the role of law enforcement from enforcer to protector, creating partnerships that are key to preventing extremism.

Partnership between Government, Civil Society Organisations, and the Private Sector cannot be stressed enough -  in this endeavour. It is encouraging to see the Government of Uganda working closely with civil society to enhance their role in Preventing and Countering Violent Extremism (PCVE).

We are also grateful for the steadfast support of the European Union. Their financial and technical assistance has been instrumental in driving key initiatives, including the UNODC-led project that produced this timely report. We look forward to continuing this vital partnership to ensure Uganda not only counters violent extremism but also builds stronger, more resilient communities.

It is worth noting that Uganda is part of a broader regional strategy, with the UN, African Union, and regional organisations working in concert to address the cross-border nature of extremism. Collaboration with our neighbours, partners, and Uganda’s leadership in implementing the PCVET strategy reinforces the regional commitment to peace and stability.

The UN system is deeply committed to ensuring that Uganda’s progress in countering violent extremism is aligned with global best practices, leaving no community behind in the quest for peace and security. 

I commend the Government of Uganda, the European Union, and UNODC for their continued commitment to this cause. As we move forward, it is essential that we translate today’s discussions into concrete actions. The UN family remains committed  to supporting Uganda maintain peace and security, and uphold human rights for all.

Let us seize this moment, act on the insights of the Rapid Threat Assessment Report, and work together to build a safer, more resilient Uganda. The path is clear—it is now up to us to walk it, hand in hand.

Thank you.