The Katwe Kabatoro Town Council has donated one acre of land to the Uganda Police Force Marine Unit to establish a zonal headquarters for the Western Region, a move expected to significantly strengthen security on lakes and rivers in Kasese, Fort Portal, Kabale, and Lake Wamala in Mityana District.
The handover ceremony, led by Mayor John Bosco Kananura and received by CP Eng. Sula Kirungi, Commandant of the Marine Unit, highlights a growing partnership between local government and national security agencies to safeguard inland waters.
Speaking to journalists on 23rd January, 2026, Mayor Kananura said the land donation demonstrates the town council’s commitment to supporting police efforts to safeguard lives and property on inland waters.
“By donating this land, we are reaffirming our support for the police in their mission to protect our people and their livelihoods. We are confident that the new Marine Unit headquarters will greatly enhance security and promote safe activities on our lakes and rivers,” the Mayor said.
CP Eng. Kirungi expressed gratitude to the town council, noting that the facility will serve as a base for operations, training, and coordination.
He explained that it would allow the Marine Unit to respond quickly to emergencies, prevent crime, and enforce water safety regulations across multiple districts.
Additionally, the new Western Region headquarters will oversee operations in Kasese, Fort Portal, Kabale, and Lake Wamala in Mityana District.
Officials say the facility aligns with national strategies to strengthen security infrastructure and community policing, while also promoting collaboration with local communities to ensure the safe use of inland water resources.
Uganda Police Force Marine Unit already operates on several key inland water bodies, and with the new zonal headquarters in Western Uganda, authorities expect improved coordination, faster emergency response, and a stronger police presence on lakes and rivers, improving safety on inland waters, protecting lives and livelihoods, and strengthening law enforcement across multiple districts.
The facility will also enhance officer training and operational readiness, supporting safer waterways for the communities of the Western Region.
This land donation highlights the value of local government support in strengthening national security efforts, ensuring better protection for lives and property along Uganda’s lakes and rivers.
