On this International Women’s Day, 8th March 2026, we celebrate the professionalism and dedication of women serving in the Uganda Prisons Service. They work in one of the most demanding security environments in the country. These women manage prison facilities, supervise rehabilitation programs, enforce lawful custody, and uphold discipline with integrity. Beyond the uniform, they are mothers, mentors, community leaders, and role models. Their contribution goes far beyond security — they are steadily changing the face of corrections in Uganda through strength and compassion.
Today, Uganda Prisons has 3,979 female officers, representing over 30 percent of the total staff strength. Among them are 113 senior officers, 171 principal officers, and 3,695 non-commissioned officers. This strong representation shows steady progress in promoting gender inclusion and equal opportunity. What was once a male-dominated profession has grown into a more balanced and professional service where women play key roles across all departments.
At the highest level of leadership, women are actively shaping strategy, policy, and institutional direction. Two female officers currently serve in top management: Ms. Prossy Geraldine Najuma, Ag. Senior Commissioner of Prisons in charge of Prisons Industries, and Ms. Aliyo Natukunda, Ag. Senior Commissioner of Prisons in charge of Legal Affairs and Human Rights. Their positions show confidence in women’s leadership at the highest decision-making level.
Several other senior managers continue to provide strong leadership in important departments. Commissioner of Prisons Juliet Nantale is in charge of Rehabilitation and Reintegration, guiding programs that prepare inmates for successful return to society. Commissioner of Prisons Brenda Sana oversees Human Resource Planning and Development, strengthening career growth and professionalism within the Service. Commissioner of Prisons Stella Nabunya leads Prisons Health Services, ensuring quality medical care for both inmates and staff.
Assistant Commissioner of Prisons Peace Christine Babirye heads the ICT department, supporting digital transformation. Assistant Commissioner of Prisons Mary Centenary serves as the Ag. Commandant of the Prisons Academy and Training School, helping train the next generation of officers. Ms. Sarah Nalwanga serves as Assistant Commissioner for Community Corrections, while Ms. Patricia Nyachwo is the Assistant Commissioner for Accounts. Beyond these leaders, many other female senior officers — from Assistant Superintendents of Prisons to Senior Superintendents — head various sections and divisions at Prisons Headquarters.
Women have also risen to important field command positions across the country. Assistant Commissioner of Prisons Mary Tamale serves as the Regional Prisons Commander for East Central. Senior Superintendent of Prisons Maureen Ninsiima commands the Western Region, while Senior Superintendent of Prisons Ann Kyatuhaire oversees the Mid Central Region. Their leadership shows that women are fully capable of managing and leading operations at the regional level. Alongside them, other women serve as District Prisons Commandants and Staff Officers.
