NITA-U, UCC Tasked to Survey Kasese for Toll-Free Line Issuance in Crime-Fighting Efforts

By : Ivan Kaahwa

The Ministry of Information Communication Technology & National Guidance, in collaboration with UTel, UBC, UCC, and NITA-U, has engaged in discussions aimed at implementing the presidential directive to provide codes for public use in sharing security intelligence with commanders.

The presidential directive mandates every police station to establish a toll-free line for direct interaction with the public.

UTel, UCC, and NITA-U have been tasked with evaluating areas in Kasese, submitting a comprehensive report on establishing toll-free lines at every police post along the borders of Kasese district, particularly in the 10 sub-counties that border the district.

This initiative aims to enable the public to contact commanders without incurring any costs, facilitating the sharing of crucial information often left unreported due to financial constraints. Minister of State for National Guidance Godfrey Kabbyanga emphasized that the line should connect directly to the commander or the OC of the police post, enabling swift decision-making and immediate deployment.

Recognizing UBC’s crucial role as the national broadcaster in disseminating information, it is considered an integral part of the fight against terrorism. Therefore, it should be integrated with the available short code managed by NITA-U on behalf of all government agencies.

Addressing concerns about potential terrorism implications, the minister emphasized that security intelligence cannot be solely entrusted to existing toll-free codes. He said that the government is cautious since security information cannot be sent through any telecom company. However, he noted that these agencies will collaborate closely with the Uganda Police force to enhance effectiveness.

The meeting concluded with the resolution to grant UTel, UCC, and NITA-U a 7-day timeframe to conduct a survey and submit a detailed report which will serve as the foundation for implementing the presidential directive.

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