MIKE SSEGAWA: Let’s Arrest Security Concerns in Mukono Municipality. This Is A Call to Action for Local Leaders and Residents

As the festive season approaches, there’s an undeniable buzz in the air—families preparing for Christmas, businesses gearing up for the rush, and communities coming together. But alongside this excitement, there’s a growing concern in Mukono Municipality—security. Recent reports of theft, burglaries, and other crimes have left many of us feeling uneasy. As residents, local leaders, and security agencies, we must come together to ensure that our beloved Mukono stays safe, especially as the holiday season draws near.

Rising Crime: A Real Concern for Mukono Residents

If you’ve been living in Mukono for some time, you might have noticed the uptick in crime. From petty thefts on the streets to break-ins in our homes, it’s no surprise that many of us feel a bit more on edge these days. The holiday season, unfortunately, seems to bring out the worst in some people, with criminals targeting homes while families are away visiting relatives or attending Christmas parties. There have also been reports of increased assaults and roadside attacks, house and business break-ins, with the perpetrators often taking advantage of the festive rush to strike when people are distracted.

It’s not just the big crimes that are a problem. Pickpocketing, stealing from local markets, and online scams are becoming more common. And as we become more connected, cybercrimes, too, are taking a toll on the unsuspecting. It’s frustrating because, just like you, I want to feel safe in my home and community, not worried that someone might be eyeing my property or loved ones.

What’s Not Working?

The security in Mukono do their best but security is everyone’s business. The prevailing challenges show there are gaps that need to be filled and the rising need for vigilance in the community. Many areas, particularly in the more rural parts of the municipality, feel underserved. If a crime happens, the response can sometimes be delayed, leaving residents to fend for themselves.

And let’s face it, we all know that feeling of frustration when you see a crime happen and wonder, “Why didn’t the police do more?” The truth is, our law enforcement is stretched thin. While we’re lucky to have police stations in key areas, many neighborhoods don’t get the kind of attention they deserve. Plus, there’s often a sense of mistrust between the police and the community, making it harder for people to speak up when something’s not right.

The Bright Spot: Deputy RDC Rhonda Tiitwe’s Efforts

But it’s not all doom and gloom. There’s been a real effort to tackle this issue, thanks to leaders like Deputy RDC Rhonda Tiitwe. Tiitwe has been holding security meetings with LC leaders and residents in various villages, bringing people together to discuss what’s happening on the ground and what needs to be done. I’ve had the chance to attend a few of these meetings, and it’s refreshing to see how involved our local leaders are in addressing these issues.

These meetings aren’t just talk—they’re an opportunity for us, the residents, to voice our concerns, share experiences, and suggest solutions. It’s a step in the right direction, and Tiitwe deserves credit for pushing this agenda forward. However, the real challenge is ensuring that these conversations translate into action on the ground, especially as crime doesn’t wait for meetings to be held.

Acknowledging DPC Benard Mugerwa’s Leadership

I’d also like to take a moment to applaud DPC Benard Mugerwa and his new team, who have shown remarkable responsiveness to the community’s calls and significantly increased police action. Their dedication to addressing security concerns is commendable. We must continue to work together and offer our full cooperation to ensure Mukono remains a safe and peaceful place for all.

What Can Be Done: Solutions for a Safer Mukono

So, what can we do to make sure our homes, businesses, and communities stay safe? I’m glad you asked. Here are a few practical steps that can make a real difference:

1. Community Policing: We can’t rely solely on the police to handle everything. If we’re going to make Mukono safer, we need to look out for one another. Setting up neighborhood watch groups, where people keep an eye on each other’s homes, can be a game-changer. When neighbors work together, criminals know they’re less likely to get away with their bad deeds.
2. More Police Visibility: It’s time for a stronger presence of law enforcement in our neighborhoods. More patrols, both on foot and in vehicles, would help deter criminals from taking advantage of gaps in security. I know this might not be easy, but a little more police presence can go a long way in making us feel safer.
3. Better Surveillance and Lighting: If you’ve noticed, some areas in Mukono are poorly lit, which gives criminals an advantage. Installing streetlights and CCTV cameras can make a huge difference. They don’t just deter criminals; they also make it easier for law enforcement to track down wrongdoers after the fact.
4. Public Awareness: It’s not just up to the police or local leaders—it’s up to all of us. We need to be more aware of how to protect ourselves and our property. As the festive season draws near, it’s a good time to remind ourselves of basic safety tips: lock doors and windows, don’t leave valuables in plain sight, and be mindful of what you post online. Criminals often scout for targets through social media, so it’s better to keep your plans private.
5. Strengthening Collaboration: Local leaders, like Deputy RDC Tiitwe, have started the conversation, but we need to make sure it doesn’t stop there. We all have a role to play—residents, local government, law enforcement, and even businesses. Collaboration is key to creating lasting change.

Safety Tips for the Festive Season

With Christmas just around the corner, here are some practical tips to keep your home and property safe:

• Lock Up: Before leaving for a holiday or party, double-check that all doors and windows are securely locked.
• Don’t Advertise Your Absence: Avoid posting travel plans on social media. Criminals can use this information to target your home while you’re away.
• Use Lighting and Alarms: Installing motion-sensor lights or an alarm system can act as a deterrent to criminals.
• Be Vigilant: If you notice any suspicious behavior, don’t hesitate to report it to the authorities. Quick action can help prevent a crime.

Final Thoughts

Mukono Municipality has its challenges when it comes to security, but together, we can make a difference. The recent efforts by local leaders like Deputy RDC Rhonda Tiitwe are a step in the right direction, and we need to continue pushing for safer neighborhoods. Let’s stay vigilant, work together, and do our part to ensure that this holiday season, Mukono is a place where everyone feels secure. We all deserve to enjoy a peaceful and joyous Christmas, free from the fear of crime.

Mike Ssegawa is a resident of Kirangira Village, Ggulu Ward in Mukono Central Division