The Minister of Internal Affairs, Maj. Gen. (Rtd) Kahinda Otafiire, has reaffirmed the critical role of citizens in safeguarding national security, describing the population as the foremost and most essential line of defence.
Addressing 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 stressed the importance of a people-centred approach to national security.
“The security of any country depends on intelligence, diplomacy, and security forces,” he said. “But it is the population that facilitates intelligence gathering and enables the security forces to act effectively. Human beings are the first line of defence.”
The Ruhinda County MP highlighted the need to invest in human capital across the seven pillars of human security: food, economy, health, environment, politics, personal safety, and community. He emphasized that Africa must prioritise these areas to establish truly sovereign and resilient defence systems.
“It is the duty of leadership to transform our thinking. Security means wealth and prosperity. When you provide security for the people, they will secure themselves,” he remarked.
Hon. Otafiire criticised the failure of some African strategic thinkers to focus on these foundational pillars. He called for policies that strengthen institutions, empower citizens, and promote discipline within the armed forces.
“Strength comes from the people. Empowered citizens and a disciplined army make a formidable force,” he added.
He also urged participants to actively engage with diverse communities, noting that inclusive dialogue is essential to building 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 other departmental heads.
