Kiira Regional Police Command has partnered with Jinja-based First African Bicycle Information Organization (FABIO) to establish Village and City Peace Advocates aimed at promoting peaceful coexistence and social cohesion.

The initiative was launched on Wednesday, September 30, 2026, during a community policing programme held at Buwala village in Butagaya sub-county, Jinja district.

The programme brought together local government officials, religious and cultural leaders, ghetto youths, security leaders and residents, who welcomed the initiative aimed at promoting peace education, respectful dialogue, tolerance, non-violence and reconciliation at the grassroots.

FABIO team leader Joy Kawanguzi said the mediation agents will help reduce hostility between security forces and communities.

She said the initiative will also support the socio-economic transformation agenda of Vision 2040, which targets moving households from the subsistence economy into the money economy.

The Deputy Regional Police Commander, SSP Christopher Katumba, who represented RPC SSP Charles Nsaba, said Jinja district has experienced a wave of radical youths, particularly during general elections, who tend to undermine local leadership, public order and development.

He said addressing the root causes of crime would contribute to sustainable public safety, security and development.

The chairperson LC3 of Butagaya sub-county, Atanansi Waiswa, welcomed the initiative, saying it would benefit residents by educating them against the diversion of public resources such as the Parish Development Model (PDM).

Jinja District Ghetto Youths chairperson, commonly known as Marick, also described the initiative as timely following leadership conflicts in the district.

He said communities need to rebuild relationships after conflicts, citing the LC1 general elections in Buwenge town council that reportedly left two people dead amid conflicts and confusion over local leadership.

Kiira Regional Police Command said it has also intensified efforts against criminal activities in areas including Butagaya sub-county, Bugembe, Mafubira and Buwenge town council.

According to the police, murder cases have significantly reduced, while motorcycle thefts, defilement cases, misinformation and disinformation on social media are being addressed through intelligence-led operations, inter-agency patrols and enhanced community policing.