Technology 13 August 2026 Nile Post
NITA-U Equips 140 Police Officers with Digital Forensics and Cybercrime Skills
Over 140 police officers from the Kampala Metropolitan Area have undergone specialized training in digital forensics and cybercrime investigation, enhancing Uganda's law enforcement capabilities against technology-related offenses. The initiative is part of a World Bank-funded project aimed at strengthening the nation's digital response mechanisms. Source: https://nilepost.co.ug/news/363208/nita-u-trains-140-kampala-police-officers-in-digital-forensics-cybercrime
The National Information Technology Authority-Uganda (NITA-U) has successfully trained 140 police officers from Kampala, Wakiso, Mukono, and Mpigi districts in crucial digital forensics and cybercrime investigation techniques. This initiative, funded by the World Bank under the Uganda Digital Acceleration Project, is designed to bolster the capacity of law enforcement to tackle the growing number of technology-based crimes.
The three-day training program, held at the Civil Service College in Jinja City, focused on equipping officers with practical skills to investigate offenses such as cybercrime, electronic fraud, and computer misuse. Participants included officers who regularly handle public complaints, making them the frontline responders to digital offenses.
Moses Byebagye, Acting Commissioner at the Uganda Police Force, emphasized the timeliness of the training, noting the increasing reliance on technology has unfortunately opened new avenues for criminal activity. He highlighted the importance of enhancing police capabilities in handling forensics and cybercrime, which are on the rise.
NITA-U officials stated that the training is part of a broader effort to strengthen Uganda’s digital systems, including its legal frameworks and response to digital challenges. The program aims to ensure officers can effectively identify, preserve, and examine digital evidence while adhering to proper investigative procedures.
Caroline Akello Mugisha, Director of Regulation and Legal Services at NITA-U, explained that police were prioritized due to their role as the initial point of contact for victims of digital crimes. She acknowledged that many reported cases do not reach a successful conclusion, underscoring the need to equip officers with both technical knowledge and legal understanding.
While participants received certificates of attendance, Byebagye suggested that NITA-U consider developing a formal certification system for future training to offer greater professional recognition to officers. NITA-U plans to extend this capacity-building program to other regions across the country.