By Infora Media
Stakeholders in the criminal justice sector have urged implementing agencies to fast-track the rollout of planned interventions aimed at addressing systemic challenges caused by HIV/AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria within justice institutions.
The appeal was made yesterday at the close of a week-long Criminal Justice Sector Stakeholder Engagement held at Nile Hotel Village in Jinja. The engagement focused on strengthening coordination and harmonizing responses to the three diseases across justice sector institutions.
Speaking at the closing session, the Deputy Registrar of the Inspectorate of Courts, Mr. Festo Nsenga, commended participants for their dedication, noting that several had sacrificed personal time, including public holidays and weekends, to ensure the engagement’s success.
“I thank you for dedicating your time, including a public holiday and weekend, and for your commitment—often working extended hours—to achieve the objectives of this engagement,” Nsenga said.
He said the engagement brought together members of the Programe Management Unit (PMU) to align institutional efforts and enhance coordination in responding to HIV/AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria within the criminal justice system.
However, Nsenga expressed concern over delays in implementing some planned activities, particularly sensitization programes targeting officers across stakeholder institutions, despite the release of funds.
“Several activities remain behind schedule. I urge PMU members to fast-track implementation of the approved work plan and roadmap to ensure timely delivery of results,” he said.
Mr. Nsenga also acknowledged the continued support of the Global Fund, noting that its contribution remains critical to strengthening health responses within justice institutions.
The Programe Management Unit comprises senior officers from key justice and health sector institutions, including the Judiciary, Uganda Police Force, Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions, Uganda Prisons Service and the Ministry of Health.