The Minister of Internal Affairs, Hon Maj Gen (Rtd) Kahinda Otafiire, has underscored the pivotal role of citizens in safeguarding national security, describing the population as the first and most vital line of defence.
Speaking to course members of Intake 3 at the National Defence College – Uganda (NDC-U), where he delivered a lecture on Uganda’s institutional security framework, Hon Otafiire emphasised the need for a people-centred approach to national security. “The security of any country depends on intelligence, diplomacy, and the security forces,” he noted.
“But it is the population that helps coordinate intelligence and enables the security forces to consolidate it. Human beings are the first line of defence.”
The Ruhinda County MP highlighted the importance of developing human capacity across seven pillars of human security: food, economy, health, environment, politics, personal safety, and community. He argued that Africa must focus on these pillars to build truly sovereign national defence systems. “It is the duty of leadership to change the way we think. Security means wealth and prosperity. When you provide security to the people, they will take care of themselves,” he said.
Hon Otafiire criticised the tendency of many African strategic thinkers to overlook these key elements, calling instead for policies that strengthen institutions, empower citizens, and enforce discipline within the armed forces. “Strength comes from the people. Empowered citizens and a disciplined army create a mighty force,” he added.
He encouraged the participants to actively engage with diverse communities, emphasising that inclusive dialogue is essential to creating a secure and prosperous Africa.
The session was attended by senior college staff, including the Dean of Studies, UPDF Brig Gen Kefa Nangeso, who represented the Commandant, UPDF Brig Gen Dr Stephen Kusasira, as well as Professor Murindwa Rutanga and departmental heads.
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