Meet Damalie Nachuha: The Inspiring Story of Uganda’s 1st and Only Female Regional Police Commander

Damalie Nachuha, born in 1981, is a remarkable Ugandan police officer who is reported to be the only female Regional Police Commander (RPC) in the country. Holding the rank of Assistant Commissioner of Police, she leads the East Kyoga police region, which includes districts such as Soroti, Serere, Amuria, Bukedea, Kaberamaido, Katakwi, Kumi, Napak, and Ngora.

Nachuha grew up in Bwihala village in Butaleja district. She is the sixth of eight children in her family, born to Eric John Haumba, a retired lay reader of the Church of Uganda, and Edinansi Alice Wagera. Her education began at Buhe and Busaba Primary Schools. She then attended Rock High School for her O'Level studies and Bukoyo Secondary School for her A'Levels. She later went to Makerere University on a government scholarship, where she graduated in 2004 with a Bachelor of Arts in Education, focusing on Religious Education and Geography.

Initially, Nachuha worked as a teacher at Busaba Seed Secondary School. However, her life took a different turn when she learned about police cadet opportunities from a cousin. Although she was unsure about the challenges of police work, she decided to apply to join the Uganda Police Force in 2007. After completing tough training at the Police Training School in Kabalye, Masindi district, she began her career in law enforcement.

Throughout her career, Nachuha has emphasised the importance of communication and community involvement in policing. She stated that she prefers to resolve issues through discussion rather than using force. Known for her friendly approach, she is said to listen to everyone involved in conflicts before making decisions. Balancing her demanding job with family life can be challenging; as a mother of three, she credits her success to good time management and a supportive family.

In addition to her police work, Nachuha has earned a Master's degree in Peace, Security, and Governance from the University for Peace in Costa Rica—an institution linked to the United Nations that focuses on peace education. She expressed hopes of continuing her studies by pursuing a doctorate.

Nachuha's leadership and dedication have been recognised within the Uganda Police Force and by the communities she serves. As a trailblazer for women in law enforcement, she inspires many aspiring female officers across Uganda.

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