UNAFRI and UBA Explore Partnership Against Financial Crimes
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The UNAFRI Management met with the delegation of Uganda Bankers' Association (UBA) to see new partnership. The Executive Director of UBA Mr. Wilbroad Owor highlighted key potential areas of collaboration with UNAFRI in the fight against financial crimes and cybersecurity affecting the Ugandan financial institutions. On the other hand the Director General of UNAFRI pointed out that UNAFRI will provide technical training and programmes to support the financial crimes' prevention initiative as proposed by the UBA.
UNAFRI’s Follow-up Visit to Judicial Training Institute (JTI) Focuses on Key Collaborations for the Future
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In a follow-up visit to the Judicial Training Institute (JTI), UNAFRI, led by its Director General, was hosted by Hon. Lady Justice Damalie Lwanga, the Executive Director of JTI. The meeting focused on strengthening collaborations around research and training, particularly addressing cybercrime and Artificial Intelligence (AI) within the judicial system. These areas are crucial for equipping the judiciary with the knowledge and tools to combat evolving forms of criminality in Uganda and across Africa.
The collaboration between UNAFRI and JTI marks a pivotal step towards building a more resilient judicial system capable of handling emerging challenges such as cybercrime. By focusing on the use of AI and its application within the legal framework, both institutions aim to emphasize training trainers of trainers enhancing the ability to manage and process complex digital cases, while also fostering innovation and improving the overall efficiency of judicial processes. This partnership underscores the importance of continuous training and research to keep up with the rapidly changing landscape of criminal justice.
UNAFRI and Uganda Electoral Commission Explore Strategic Partnership to Enhance Electoral Integrity Ahead of 2026 Elections
UNAFRI, led by its Director General, recently held a key meeting with the Uganda Electoral Commission (UEC) to discuss a strategic partnership ahead of the 2026 elections. The focus of the discussion was on preventing electoral crime and developing a checklist of best practices that can be implemented not only in Uganda but across Africa. This initiative aims to enhance the integrity and security of elections, ensuring transparency and fairness in the democratic process.
The collaboration between UNAFRI and the UEC is seen as a significant step toward improving electoral processes across the continent. By addressing challenges related to electoral fraud and crime, the partnership seeks to create a framework for secure and trustworthy elections, with long-term goals of promoting transparency, accountability, and democratic values in African nations.
A Collaborative Commitment: Thanking the African Group for Their Support
The Third Committee General Discussion during the 79th UN General Assembly provided an important platform to present our Strategic Plan and key focus areas. We extend our sincere gratitude to the African Group for their steadfast support, which is crucial for enhancing crime prevention and criminal justice initiatives. Their proactive approach to countering the misuse of ICT aligns with our shared vision for a safer digital environment. With the collaboration of our partners, we are dedicated to implementing effective strategies to tackle cybersecurity challenges, particularly in relation to cybercrime. We remain committed to prioritizing crime prevention and addressing the misuse of technology.
Our meeting with H.E. Signe Winding Albjerg, Ambassador of Denmark to Uganda
UNAFRI recently engaged in a fruitful discussion with H.E. Signe Winding Albjerg, Ambassador of Denmark to Uganda, to explore a partnership aimed at advancing training and research in key areas such as the rule of law, criminal justice, and crime prevention. This collaboration is set to bolster UNAFRI’s capacity to deliver specialized legal education, fostering improved justice and governance across the region.
By tapping into Denmark’s expertise, this initiative will equip institutions with essential skills to fortify legal frameworks and support sustainable development through enhanced governance and adherence to the rule of law.
Dr. Ahmed Alinga Meets UNAFRI Governing Board Chairman
Dr. Ahmed Alinga, the new Director of Training and Programs at the United Nations African Institute for the Prevention of Crime and the Treatment of Offenders (UNAFRI), was introduced to the Chairman of the Governing Board, Hon. John Mulimba, during a recent visit to the Institute. The meeting highlighted Dr. Alinga’s extensive experience and his expected contributions to UNAFRI’s mission. Both leaders discussed future initiatives, marking a new phase in UNAFRI’s efforts to enhance crime prevention and offender rehabilitation across Africa.
Welcoming Dr. Ahmed Linga
UNAFRI’s new Director of Training and Programs!
We are delighted to announce the appointment of Dr. Ahmed Linga from Tanzania as the new Director of Training and Programs at UNAFRI. His extensive experience and visionary leadership are expected to bring a fresh perspective to our organization. With Dr. Linga on board, we are poised to elevate our training programs and expand our research initiatives, ensuring they remain at the forefront of innovation.
This strategic appointment reflects the growth of our training department and our renewed focus on delivering intensive, high-impact training programs. We are embarking on a journey to enhance our efforts in equipping individuals and institutions across Africa with the skills and knowledge needed to drive sustainable development and foster lasting change.
Visit of the Afro-Arab Youth Council delegation.
UNAFRI hosted the Afro-Arab Youth Council delegation, led by Hon. Dr. Abbas Agaba. The meeting underscored our commitment to SDG 16, focusing on promoting peace, justice, and strong institutions.
The visit provided a valuable platform for discussing how we can build enduring partnerships and collaborative efforts to drive meaningful progress across Africa and the Arab world.
Celebrating Int-YouthDay 2024 in Soroti Town!
UNAFRI joined the rest of the world to commemorate the International Youth Day on 12th August 2024. In Uganda, it was celebrated in Soroti town. From Left, Mr. Munanura Andrew, the Deputy Director General of UNAFRI, Mr. Paulin Djomo, the Director Regional Service Centre Entebbe, Ms. Susan Ngongi Namondo, the UN Resident Coordinator in Uganda, H.E, Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, the President of Uganda
Exploring Potential Collaborations With The Judiciary in Uganda's Criminal Justice System
Mr. Munanura Andrew Karokora, Deputy Director General of UNAFRI, and his team paid a courtesy visit to Hon. Justice Richard Buteera, Deputy Chief Justice of Uganda, and Hon. Justice Flavian Zeija, Principal Judge of Uganda.
The meeting aimed to explore potential collaborations with the Judiciary in Uganda's criminal justice system and to discuss the Judiciary's role in promoting the universal practical application of the UN Standard Minimum Rules for the Treatment of Prisoners, in commemoration of Nelson Mandela International Day.
Meeting with His Excellency Ambassador of the State of Libya to Uganda, H.E Abraheem Ahmed Sultan.
During the visit, the UNAFRI delegation had the honor of meeting with His Excellency Ambassador Abraheem Ahmed Omar Sultan. The discussions focused on exploring ways to enhance mutual cooperation and addressing common challenges. This strategic dialogue aimed to align the efforts of both parties towards achieving their shared goals and objectives.
Ambassador Abraheem Ahmed Sultan expressed his appreciation for the visit and reiterated Libya's commitment to contributing to the initiatives and programs of UNAFRI. He highlighted the importance of collaborative efforts in tackling issues such as crime prevention, social justice, and rehabilitation.
On July 18, 2024, under the theme "Prison Matters," UNAFRI recognizes the profound impact of imprisonment not only on individuals but also on society as a whole. Mandela's life reminds us that prisons should be places of rehabilitation and reintegration, not despair and dehumanization. We are called to advocate for prison reforms that uphold human rights, provide education and vocational training, and ensure that every person is given the opportunity to contribute positively to their communities upon release.
The UNAFRI Director General had a productive meeting with Brigadier General Jules NDIHOKUBWAYO, the Ambassador of Burundi to Kampala. Together, we are strengthening our cooperation and working towards a stronger, more collaborative future.
Exciting day at UNAFRI!
We held interviews to recruit a new Deputy Director General and a Director of Training and Programmes. Looking forward to welcoming fresh leadership to our team!
The Director General of UNAFRI paid a courtesy visit to H.E. Carmelo Micha Nguema Misi, the Equatorial Guinea Ambassador to Uganda. We discussed the future of strengthening our collaboration and working together on shared goals.
In collaboration with the University of Birmingham Law School, UNAFRI organised the 2nd conference planning (sandpit) event on indigenous approaches to the regulation of digital assets and artificial intelligence in Africa. At Mestil Hotel in Kampala
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The Director General represented UNAFRI at the 33rd Commission of Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice in Vienna. He was accompanied by the Legal and Training Consultant Munanura Andrew.
UNAFRI's legal and Training Consultant Andrew Karokora made a presentation at the PNI workshop on the need for an African Convention on Extradition & MLA to supplement UNTOC in efforts to combat transnational criminality.
The DG UNAFRI met with the Director of ILANUD Prof. Douglas Durran on the sidelines of the 33rd session of the CCPCJ in preparation for a scheduled, joint conference/workshop between UNAFRI and ILANUD due in Uganda in July 2024 on juvenile justice and international legal systems; sharing best practices in a South - South cooperation arrangement.
UNAFRI
As the window of United Nations Crime Prevention strategies and framework to Africa, the Institute derives its legitimacy for its operations from the needs of Member States in Crime Prevention, particularly as Crime has been noted to be a major impediment to sustained social development.