Okodel Francis

Seasoned Security & Peacebuilding Expert | International Relations Specialist | Academic & Research Consultant

Gulu, UG.

About

A highly accomplished combat veteran and intelligence analyst with over 30 years of experience in military operations, security studies, and peacebuilding across the Great Lakes Region. Possessing a Master's in Governance and Ethics, I leverage deep expertise in international relations, conflict resolution, and human rights to lead strategic initiatives and provide expert consultancy. Proven ability to navigate complex security landscapes, drive impactful research, and train security forces, contributing to regional stability and human protection.

Work

Gulu University (Institute of Peace and Strategic Studies)

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Part-time Lecturer

Gulu, Northern Region, Uganda

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Summary

Delivered academic instruction and supervised student research in peace and security studies, contributing to the university's academic and public image.

Highlights

Delivered classroom teaching, developed and marked coursework, tests, and examinations for students in peace and security studies.

Supervised student research projects, guiding academic development and ensuring quality outputs within the department.

Actively participated in university academic and non-academic programs, enhancing the institution's reputation and outreach.

Represented Gulu University in various forums, effectively promoting its image and academic mission.

Various Security Forces

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Military Instructor

Not Provided, Not Provided, Uganda

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Summary

Provided specialized training to security forces on critical topics including organizational culture, conflict theories, peacekeeping, and international relations, enhancing operational readiness and strategic understanding.

Highlights

Instructed security forces on Organizational Culture and Behavior, fostering professionalism and ethical conduct within military units.

Delivered training on Contemporary Theories of War/Conflicts, equipping personnel with advanced analytical frameworks for conflict resolution.

Educated military personnel on Peace Keeping, VIP protection, and National Security & Intelligence, enhancing capabilities for complex operations.

Conducted sessions on International Relations, Diplomacy, and Leadership, broadening strategic perspectives and command effectiveness.

United Nations (UN-GU)

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Guard Commandant

Gulu, Northern Region, Uganda

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Summary

Managed and enforced comprehensive safety and security protocols, ensuring compliance and operational effectiveness for United Nations operations.

Highlights

Ensured proper implementation of safety and security policies, procedures, and guidelines, maintaining a secure operational environment.

Conducted security training programs for personnel, enhancing preparedness and adherence to safety protocols.

Executed regular security audits and evacuation drills, identifying vulnerabilities and strengthening emergency response capabilities.

Developed and maintained security protocols, contributing to the overall protection of UN assets and personnel.

South Sudan Council of Religious Leaders

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Assistant Conflict Mediation Officer

Not Provided, Not Provided, South Sudan

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Summary

Supported senior mediation specialists in managing complex inter-ethnic conflict cases, facilitating resolution processes and tracking agreements for peacebuilding initiatives.

Highlights

Supported Senior Mediation Specialist in managing mediation cases between Luo Nuer and Murle ethnic groups, contributing to conflict resolution efforts.

Coordinated intake and scheduling of mediation meetings and sessions, optimizing operational efficiency for conflict resolution.

Tracked status of pending actions and mediation agreements, ensuring accountability and progress in peacebuilding work plans.

Facilitated follow-up with parties to mediation, ensuring adherence to agreed-upon resolutions and fostering sustained peace.

External Security Organization (ESO)

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Intelligence Officer

Not Provided, Not Provided, Uganda

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Summary

Contributed to national security as an Intelligence Officer for the External Security Organization, providing critical intelligence and strategic insights for over a decade.

Highlights

Provided strategic intelligence analysis to inform national security decisions and foreign policy initiatives.

Conducted covert operations to gather critical information, safeguarding national interests in complex geopolitical landscapes.

Collaborated with international partners on intelligence sharing and counter-terrorism efforts, enhancing regional security.

Developed comprehensive threat assessments, enabling proactive responses to emerging security challenges.

Uganda People's Defence Force (UPDF) 4th Infantry Division

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Human Rights Officer

Gulu, Northern Region, Uganda

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Summary

Ensured military operations adhered to international human rights and humanitarian law, actively monitoring, investigating, and advising to prevent violations and protect civilians.

Highlights

Monitored and investigated military operations to ensure compliance with International Human Rights Law (IHRL) and International Humanitarian Law (IHL).

Provided crucial training and advisory services to military personnel, significantly reducing potential human rights violations.

Developed and implemented strategies to prevent civilian harm during operations, enhancing the UPDF's commitment to human protection.

Documented and reported on human rights adherence, contributing to accountability and transparency within the division.

Uganda People's Defence Force (UPDF)

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Member, General Army Court Martial

Gulu, Northern Region, Uganda

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Summary

Served two terms as a member of the UPDF General Army Court Martial, contributing to military justice and upholding disciplinary standards within the armed forces.

Highlights

Participated in judicial proceedings, ensuring fair and impartial application of military law and justice.

Contributed to upholding discipline and accountability within the UPDF through rigorous court martial processes.

Reviewed evidence and made informed decisions on complex military cases, safeguarding the integrity of the armed forces.

Advised on legal interpretations and procedural guidelines for military justice, enhancing judicial efficiency.

Uganda People's Defence Force (UPDF) - Chieftaincy of Military Intelligence

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Counter Intelligence Officer

Not Provided, Not Provided, Uganda

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Summary

Conducted critical counter-intelligence operations for the Chieftaincy of Military Intelligence, safeguarding national security interests and mitigating threats.

Highlights

Executed intelligence gathering and analysis to identify and neutralize threats to national security.

Developed and implemented counter-intelligence strategies, protecting sensitive military information and assets.

Collaborated with various security agencies to enhance intelligence sharing and operational effectiveness.

Provided actionable intelligence reports to senior command, informing strategic decision-making and risk mitigation.

International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC)

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Field Security Liaison Officer

Not Provided, Not Provided, Congo (Democratic Republic of the)

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Summary

Facilitated humanitarian efforts by supporting the tracing, recovery, and reintegration of former abductees across multiple conflict zones including DR Congo, Central African Republic, and South Sudan, fostering community reconciliation.

Highlights

Supported the tracing and recovery of former abductees in DR Congo, Central African Republic, and South Sudan, aiding family reunification efforts.

Coordinated documentation and reintegration processes for vulnerable individuals, ensuring their safe return to communities.

Facilitated community dialogues to address post-conflict challenges, promoting reconciliation and social cohesion.

Liaised with local authorities and communities to ensure secure and effective humanitarian operations in volatile regions.

Uganda People's Defence Force (UPDF) - 53rd Battalion

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Member, Unit Disciplinary Committee

Not Provided, Not Provided, Uganda

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Summary

Contributed to maintaining discipline and order within the 53rd Battalion by serving two terms on the Unit Disciplinary Committee, upholding military standards.

Highlights

Addressed disciplinary issues within the 53rd Battalion, ensuring adherence to military regulations and codes of conduct.

Participated in investigations and hearings, making recommendations for appropriate disciplinary actions.

Contributed to fostering a culture of accountability and professionalism among battalion personnel.

Supported the command structure in maintaining operational effectiveness through robust disciplinary oversight.

Education

Gulu University

Gulu, Northern Region, Uganda
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PhD Peace and Security Studies

Gulu University

Gulu, Northern Region, Uganda
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Master of Arts (M.A.) Governance and Ethics

Gulu University

Gulu, Northern Region, Uganda
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Bachelor Development Studies

Gulu Central High School

Gulu, Northern Region, Uganda
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Uganda Advanced Certificate of Education (UACE) General Studies

Mbale Senior Secondary School

Mbale, Eastern Region, Uganda
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Uganda Certificate of Education (UCE) General Studies

Languages

English

Swahili

Lingala

Ateso

Nyakarimojong

Lungada

Certificates

UN Basic and Advanced Security in the Field

United Nations Department of Safety and Security

Skills

Security & Defense

Military Operations, Intelligence Analysis, Counter Intelligence, Security Audits, Security Training, VIP Protection, National Security, Peacekeeping Operations.

Peacebuilding & Conflict Resolution

Conflict Mediation, Peacebuilding, Conflict Analysis, International Relations, Diplomacy, Trans-boundary Peace & Security, Community Dialogues.

Human Rights & Governance

Human Rights Law (IHRL), International Humanitarian Law (IHL), Human Rights Monitoring & Investigation, Civilian Protection, Governance, Ethics, Gender Mainstreaming, Political Analysis, Socio-Economic Analysis.

Research & Consultancy

Research Design, Data Collection, Data Analysis, Report Writing, Rapid Assessment Surveys, Strategic Advisory, Project Management, Stakeholder Engagement.

Leadership & Development

Team Leadership, Strategic Planning, Decision Making under Ambiguity, Curriculum Development, Student Supervision, Training & Development.

Technical Skills

Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint), Internet Research.

Soft Skills

Cultural Sensitivity, Problem Solving, Resilience, Physical Stamina.

References

Ass Prof. Daniel Komakech

Chief Institute of Research and Graduate Studies, Gulu University and Chief of Party Ernest Cox Institute P.O BOX 116 Gulu; Tel: +256(0)777-796506, E-mail: d.komakech@gu.ac.ug

Ass Prof. Charles Amone

Department of History and Humanities- Kyambogo University P.O BOX1 Tel +256(0)772462901.Email c.amone@ku.ac.ug

Col. Council Ruhanga

Legal Officer, Luwero Industries Limited Nakasongola, Tel: 0779031222.

Col. Olwa Obwot

Commandant Operations Wealth Creation Gulu City. Tel: +256 789989151.

Projects

Field School for Peace, Security and Human Rights

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Summary

Served as Team Leader for a Field School focused on Peace, Security, and Human Rights in North Kivu, DR Congo, organized by the Institute for Peace and Security Studies Africa (IPSS).

Post-Resettlement Experiences of Ex-LRA Combatants Study

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Summary

Led a grant-funded research project investigating the post-resettlement experiences of former Lord's Resistance Army (LRA) combatants in northern and eastern Uganda.

Rethinking Vulnerability to COVID-19 Lockdown in Gulu District

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Summary

Conducted a nominated study focusing on the vulnerability of communities to COVID-19 lockdowns in Gulu district, Uganda, in collaboration with Cambridge and Gulu Universities.

Rapid Assessment Survey: Socio-Economic Impacts of COVID-19 in Northern Uganda

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Summary

Led a rapid assessment survey team to understand the socio-economic impacts of COVID-19 on selected communities in Northern Uganda, nominated by USAID and Makerere University.

Baseline Study: Reducing Gender-Based Violence in Acholi Sub-region

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Summary

Led a comprehensive baseline study commissioned by CARITAS Gulu Archdiocese, focusing on community-sustainable actions to reduce Gender-Based Violence (GBV) in northern Uganda.

Trans-boundary Peace & Security MOU Development

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Summary

Led the preparation, negotiation, and signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for trans-boundary peace and security preservation along the borders of Uganda and South Sudan, nominated by Development Associate International (DAI) Sudan.

Baseline Survey: Adolescent Sexual and Reproductive Health Rights (ASRHR) Project

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Summary

Led a baseline survey for Restless Development Uganda's 'Get up to Speak Out' project, conducting a situational analysis and assessing project indicators for Adolescent Sexual and Reproductive Health Rights (ASRHR) interventions.