Key actors discuss urgent solutions against violent extremism in Uganda

Kampala, 18 September 2024 – With support from the European Union (EU), representatives from the Government of Uganda, Civil Society, the United Nations, and the donor community convened in Kampala for a crucial multi-stakeholder round table discussion. The event focused on the findings of the Rapid Threat Assessment Report on Violent Extremism in Uganda. This gathering is a critical step toward evaluating the current challenges posed by violent extremism in high-risk communities and purposing actionable recommendations to enhance national efforts in Preventing and Countering Violent Extremism and Terrorism (PCVET).

The event, organized in partnership between the Government of Uganda, United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), with funding from the EU, brought together over 100 key stakeholders, including representatives from Government ministries, departments, and agencies, civil society organizations, and religious leaders. Discussions centered around the dynamics of violent extremism in Uganda, including the drivers of radicalization, and how coordinated interventions can strengthen resilience in communities at risk. 

Key objectives of the round table discussion included:

• Disseminating and analyzing the findings of the Rapid Threat Assessment, which examined patterns, factors, and dynamics of violent extremism and radicalization in Uganda’s most vulnerable communities.
• Identifying gaps and challenges in current counter-extremism efforts and proposing practical recommendations for the Government, civil society, and international partners to strengthen interventions. 

The event commenced with opening remarks from Gen. David Muhoozi, Uganda’s Minister of Internal Affairs, who emphasized the importance of peace and security in line with Uganda’s Vision 2040. He acknowledged the complexity of the drivers behind extremism and elaborated on the Government's commitment to implementing the PCVET strategy. 

Lt. General Joseph Musanyufu, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Internal Affairs, affirmed the Government’s commitment to address the root causes of radicalization and ensure that personnel are equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to respond effectively to threats of violent extremism. 

Ms. Susan Ngongi Namondo, UN Resident Coordinator in Uganda, reiterated the UN’s support for Uganda’s efforts to combat violent extremism. She emphasized the UN’s focus on promoting peace, human rights, and sustainable development, with special attention to vulnerable groups, including women, youth, and marginalized communities. 

Mr. Guillaume Chartrain, EU Deputy Head of Delegation to Uganda noted that the EU, like Uganda, recognizes the need to counter extremist ideologies online and empower local actors to build resilient communities. He said the EU is increasing support to cities and civil society organizations on the frontlines of prevention efforts.

The round table also featured a detailed presentation of the Rapid Threat Assessment Report by Professor Abdu Katende, the consultant leading the assessment. The report’s findings highlighted key trends in violent extremism, the vulnerabilities faced by at-risk communities, and recommendations for tailored responses to mitigate these threats. 

The discussion concluded with a plenary session, where participants shared insights and proposed practical strategies for strengthening Uganda’s capacity to prevent violent extremism and radicalization. 

The outcomes of this round table discussion will guide the next steps in implementing the PCVET strategy and ensuring a coordinated response that includes both Government and civil society. 

For press inquiries please contact Mr. Michael Kisitu, United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) at +256-758828033 and micheal.kisitu@un.org