Ugandan guards go to Afghanistan

ABOUT 300 Ugandan security guards will leave for Afghanistan next month. The guards were recruited by Watertight Security Services, a Ugandan security firm, which has been taking guards to Iraq. The guards have been trained for the last three months by American security experts who have worked in war-torn regions such as Iraq, Afghanistan, Somalia and Kuwait. Watertight managing director Moses Matsiko yesterday explained that the guards would provide non-combat security services to boost other security firms. “We have established yet another link that will give Ugandans an opportunity to make money, especially now when there is a global financial crisis,” Matsiko said. He declined to give details about the contracts the guards signed. “The guards will do a similar job that others are already doing in Iraq. Ugandans have done an outstanding job in Iraq and that is why they have been considered for this opportunity,” Matsiko said. In spite of the volatile security situation in Iraq, Ugandans have not been exposed to attacks. Only three cases involving Ugandans have been reported. Sources said the deal had been cleared by security agencies and the External Employment Unit in the Ministry of Labour. The guards will earn $800 (sh1.6m) a month. They will also get compensation in case of injury or death. The head of the External employment Unit, Milton Turyagyenda, said the law allows companies to take Ugandans to any part of the world. ..more..http://www.newvision.co.ug/D/8/12/676305