District security committees and the oversight of private security companies in Uganda

Abstract

This study investigated the role of District Security Committees in the oversight of private security companies in Uganda to contribute to ways through which private public security provision can be enhanced for sustainable security and development. Using Wakiso and Kampala as case studies, the study relied on a qualitative approach based on key informant in-depth interviews involving members of District Security Committees, private security company supervisors, supervisors at police headquarters in charge of private security organization and private security services contractors and members to analyze the mechanisms and challenges District Security Committees face in the oversight of private security companies.