Author: Kennedy

Date: January 10, 2025

The Head of the State House Anti-Corruption Unit (SH-ACU), Brig Gen Henry Isoke, held an interactive session with 725 student leaders from universities and higher institutions of learning across the country. The engagement took place at Nkumba University, Entebbe, where the student leaders are undergoing a Patriotism and Ideological Training Program.

Brig Gen Isoke was welcomed by Col Justus Rukondo, Camp Commandant in charge of the program’s coordination, and Lt Col Akasius Mpabaisi, the Chief Instructor.

In his presentation, Brig Gen Isoke highlighted the enormous cost of corruption, noting its devastating effects on national development. Among its many consequences, he pointed out:

• Brain drain – Between 2018 and 2022, Uganda externalized close to 230,000 young migrant workers, mostly to the Middle East, in search of better opportunities.
• Distorted resource allocation and reduced foreign investment
• Increased income inequality
• Compromised infrastructure, poor healthcare, and environmental degradation

He emphasized that corruption not only weakens governance systems but also undermines the wellbeing of citizens.

The General reminded the student leaders that Uganda has strong legal and institutional mechanisms in place to combat corruption, including the Anti-Corruption Act, the Whistleblowers Protection Act, and technological interventions such as e-government procurement. Key institutions—such as the Inspectorate of Government (IGG), Public Procurement and Disposal of Public Assets Authority (PPDA), Directorate of Public Prosecutions (DPP), SH-ACU, and the Anti-Corruption Court—were specifically established to enforce accountability.

“The laws are not the problem; they are sufficient to address the vice. What we need is to effectively utilize these frameworks to decisively defeat corruption,” Brig Gen Isoke stressed.

Students, in their contribution, highlighted the need for increased sensitization of both the public and enforcement officers on the proper application of these laws.

Despite the persistence of corruption, Brig Gen Isoke noted that Uganda has made notable progress, including:

• GDP growth of 6% in FY 2023/24
• Increased life expectancy to 68.2 years
• Attainment of lower middle-income status

He further pointed to youth-focused initiatives such as the Presidential Industrial Hubs and the Youth Livelihood Program as essential vehicles for wealth creation and economic transformation.

Brig Gen Isoke concluded by emphasizing that defeating corruption is key to enhancing national development. He credited the NRM government, under the leadership of H.E. President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, for establishing robust anti-corruption laws, institutions, and mass mobilization efforts through initiatives such as patriotic clubs.

He commended the National Secretariat for Patriotism Corps (NSPC) for promoting patriotism among the youth and thanked the leadership of Nkumba University for hosting the program.

“You, as student leaders, must continue to take part in patriotic programs to strengthen your moral and ethical values. With your energy and integrity, Uganda can build a future free of corruption,” Brig Gen Isoke told the youth.

Date: December 10, 2024

The commemoration of International Anti-Corruption Day 2024 took place at the Speke Resort Convention Centre, Munyonyo, under the theme: “Promoting Effective Participation of the Youth in the War Against Corruption.” The event brought together senior government leaders, anti-corruption agencies, civil society, and youth representatives to reflect on Uganda’s progress and collective commitment to eliminating corruption.

Mr. Jacob Eyeru, Chairperson of the National Youth Council, in his remarks highlighted the critical role of young people in the fight against corruption.

He stressed that for youth to fully participate, government and anti-corruption agencies must:

• Simplify reporting channels for corruption cases
• Make information more available and accessible
• Enhance youth monitoring of service delivery
• Promote open governance
• Strengthen partnerships with stakeholders

Mr. Eyeru observed that with these strategies, young Ugandans—who make up more than 78% of the population—will continue to fully engage in advancing integrity and accountability.

The Chief Guest, Rt. Hon. Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja, representing H.E. the President, delivered a strong message reaffirming government’s unwavering resolve to fight corruption. She reminded participants that this commitment is deeply rooted in the liberation struggle, where accountability and integrity were central pillars of the Ten-Point Programme of the National Resistance Movement (NRM).

The Prime Minister highlighted that key government frameworks—including the NRM Manifesto (2021–2026), Vision 2040, and the National Development Plans III and IV—clearly outline the country’s anti-corruption agenda.

The Prime Minister urged all Ugandans, including civil society, professional associations, the media, and religious leaders, to contribute to the anti-corruption struggle by fulfilling their roles responsibly.

She called on anti-corruption agencies to strengthen cooperation, map out high-risk Ministries, Departments, Agencies (MDAs), and Local Governments, and design targeted strategies to address vulnerabilities.

She further stressed the importance of technology in reducing opportunities for corruption, citing digital innovations that minimize human interaction in service delivery. She also emphasized the role of robust audits and citizen engagement in ensuring accountability in key government programs such as the Parish Development Model (PDM) and infrastructure projects.

“We must work towards building a society that values transparency, accountability, and fairness—one where corruption is not tolerated and where every Ugandan has equal access to opportunities and public resources,” she concluded.

On behalf of the anti-corruption agencies, Mr. Edward Akol delivered a joint statement reaffirming their collective efforts in combating corruption. He outlined ongoing initiatives, including high-profile prosecutions, recovery of public funds, and strengthening institutional coordination to safeguard national resources.

The commemoration set the tone for continued collaboration between government, youth, and anti-corruption institutions in building a corruption-free Uganda. It reaffirmed that success in the fight against corruption requires unity, integrity, and vigilance at every level of society.

Date: December 06, 2024

The grand finale of the Uganda Speech and Debate Champions League (USDCL) 2024 was held under the theme: “Promoting Effective Participation of Youth in the War Against Corruption.” This year’s competition brought together over 24 schools, featuring both national and regional champions from across the country.

The competition is held once every year organized by the National Debate Council and State House Anti-corruption Unit.

The semi-finals and final rounds saw Uganda’s brightest young minds showcase their debating prowess on issues surrounding corruption and accountability. Their energy, passion, and thought-provoking ideas reflected the pivotal role young people can play in shaping a corruption-free future.

Delivering remarks on behalf of Brig Gen Henry Isoke, Head of the State House Anti-Corruption Unit (SH-ACU), the Special Presidential Advisor for Litigation, Mr. Amos Ngolobe, commended the youth for their outstanding participation.

“Your actions today are a testament to the potential of youth to lead the fight against corruption,” he said.

Mr. Ngolobe also applauded Mr. Gasta Kakaire and his team for creating opportunities for young people to engage in such platforms, noting that empowered youth are a formidable force when given access to education and platforms for advocacy.

The Deputy Inspector General of Government (IGG), Dr. Patricia Achan Okiria, who served as Chief Guest, expressed gratitude to the participants and reminded them that every debate argument and rebuttal broadens perspectives and raises national consciousness about the impact of corruption.

She emphasized that youth remain among the most vulnerable to corruption and urged them to embrace values of integrity, truthfulness, patriotism, and social responsibility as they prepare for future leadership.

Dr. Okiria further thanked SH-ACU and the National Debate Council Uganda (NDCU) for organizing the platform, stressing that inter-agency collaboration is key in strengthening the fight against corruption.

After a spirited contest, Nyakasura School emerged as the Champions of Champions of the Uganda Speech and Debate Champions League 2024.

The event was attended by representatives from various anti-corruption agencies, including the Office of the Auditor General (OAG), Internal Security Organisation (ISO), Criminal Investigations Directorate (CID), and the Financial Intelligence Authority (FIA).

The 2024 USDCL finale reaffirmed that Uganda’s youth are not just future leaders but present-day change-makers. Platforms like these continue to equip young people with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to hold leaders accountable and contribute meaningfully to the fight against corruption

Date: December 04, 2024

As part of the ongoing Anti-Corruption Week activities, the Head of the State House Anti-Corruption Unit (SH-ACU), Brig Gen Henry Isoke, hosted Mr. Nicholas Rowell, a UK-based Anti-Corruption Compliance Consultant, who delivered a presentation on “How to Stop the Supply Side of Corruption.”

In his presentation, Mr. Rowell stressed the need for government to enact laws requiring both public and private institutions to establish anti-corruption compliance programs and policies. He noted that in contexts where strong internal controls are implemented and regularly reviewed, corruption is significantly reduced or eliminated.

Mr. Rowell advised that such systems must include regular updates of internal controls, continuous transaction monitoring, and random audits. He warned that red flags—possible indicators of corruption or fraud—should never be ignored.

He further emphasized that compliance requirements vary depending on the size and risk exposure of institutions, and outlined several procedures that organizations should prioritize to strengthen compliance frameworks. He also emphasized the need for greater cooperation among Uganda’s anti-corruption agencies to maximize their collective potential in the fight against corruption.

The Inspector General of Government (IGG), Hon. Beti Kamya, who served as Chief Guest, commended Mr. Rowell for his insightful presentation.

“When you sidestep rules, the result is corruption,” Hon. Kamya observed.

She also expressed the agencies’ readiness to work closely with Mr. Rowell to tap into his extensive experience in building sustainable compliance systems to strengthen Uganda’s fight against corruption.

The event brought together representatives from several anti-corruption agencies, including the Office of the Auditor General (OAG), Internal Security Organisation (ISO), Financial Intelligence Authority (FIA), Criminal Investigations Directorate (CID), and State House Investors’ protection Unit.

Date: December 04th, 2024

Anti-corruption agencies led by the Inspectorate of Government (IGG), under the leadership of Hon. Betty Kamya, held a joint press briefing at the Uganda Media Centre to update the country on progress in the fight against corruption as part of the commemoration of International Anti-Corruption Day.

This year’s theme, “Promoting Effective Youth Participation in the Fight Against Corruption,” highlights the critical role of young people in shaping a corruption-free future. Speakers emphasized the importance of providing platforms for youth to openly speak about corruption and to actively engage in efforts to hold leaders and institutions accountable.

With over 78% of Uganda’s population made up of young people, the agencies stressed that the youth have immense potential to serve as agents of change by rejecting corrupt practices and promoting integrity in their communities.

The Head of the State House Anti-Corruption Unit (SH-ACU), Brig Gen Henry Isoke, commended the progress made in raising awareness among citizens, noting that while corruption remains a significant challenge, Uganda has made reasonable steps forward in empowering communities to speak out and demand accountability.

The press briefing set the tone for a series of activities during Anti-Corruption Week, running from 1st to 9th December, aimed at mobilizing Ugandans—especially the youth—against corruption.

Date: November 22, 2024.

This afternoon, the Honourable Minister of State for Gender, Labour, and Social Development in charge of Children and Youth Affairs, Hon. Balaam Barugahara Ateenyi, paid a courtesy call on the Head of the State House Anti-Corruption Unit (SH-ACU), Brig Gen Henry Isoke.

The two leaders held discussions on issues of national interest, with a focus on mentoring and mobilising young people to become responsible cadres who contribute to the socio-economic transformation of the country while also taking an active role in the fight against corruption.

Key to their discussions was a shared resolve to address impunity and corruption, particularly in areas such as defrauding investors, persistent land grabbing, and abuse of office.

Brig Gen Isoke thanked Hon. Balaam for his continued efforts in promoting child and youth development programmes across Uganda. He further affirmed SH-ACU’s unwavering commitment to the anti-corruption agenda, highlighting the Unit’s swift response mechanisms to public complaints on graft.

The meeting highlighted the importance of collaborative efforts between government leaders and institutions in fighting corruption while empowering the youth to play a central role in building a more accountable and corrupt free Uganda.

Date: November 21, 2024

The State House Anti-Corruption Unit (SH-ACU), working in collaboration with the Criminal Investigations Directorate (CID) and the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP), has arraigned Kamuntu Semakula Ivan alias Majambere, the Deputy Resident District Commissioner (RDC) of Rukiga District, before the Gomba Magistrates’ Court on charges related to land grabbing, conspiracy to defraud, cattle theft, and criminal trespass.

According to prosecution, in August 2023, Majambere, together with accomplices still at large, violently seized a farmland measuring approximately 300 acres (Block 75, Plot 2) in Gomba District, legally owned by 75-year-old Mzee Frank Rushanganwa, who has held a valid certificate of title since 2003.

During the illegal occupation, the accused and his accomplices allegedly stole 157 cows valued at UGX 318 million, which were transported to an unknown location. Majambere claimed he had purchased part of the land from his co-accused, Amos Mwesigye, in 2020. Mwesigye, in turn, claimed to have acquired the entire property in 2018, but failed to provide proof of ownership. To consolidate their unlawful occupation, the duo is said to have sold off portions of the land to unsuspecting individuals.

In March 2024, court issued an eviction order against Mwesigye. However, despite the court’s directive, Majambere and his co-accused allegedly continued to threaten and dispossess the rightful owner, prompting SH-ACU’s intervention. This led to the arrest and arraignment of Majambere.

He has been remanded until 3rd December 2024, as investigations continue.

The Unit reiterates its commitment to protecting vulnerable Ugandans from illegal land evictions and property-related fraud, and warns that all perpetrators will be held accountable under the law.

The State House Anti-Corruption Unit (SH-ACU), in collaboration with the Criminal Investigations Directorate (CID) and the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP), has arraigned a Sudanese national before the Buganda Road Chief Magistrates Court over a gold scam involving over USD 650,000 (UGX 2.3 billion).

The accused, Abdul Aziz Yousif Mohammad Adam, also known as Aziz, was charged with obtaining money by false pretense and subsequently remanded until 28th November 2024.

Court heard that in the months of September and October 2024, Aziz and others still at large, with intent to defraud, obtained USD 650,000 from Mr. Osman Hussan, an investor from Dubai. The accused falsely claimed that they were in position to sell gold to him, whereas not.

This case adds to a growing number of gold-related fraud schemes targeting unsuspecting investors. The State House Anti-Corruption Unit, working with partner agencies, has pledged to continue cracking down on such fraudulent networks to protect both local and foreign investors.

Date: November 11, 2024

The Makindye Chief Magistrates Court has convicted and sentenced Sembwa Rabinson to 12 months imprisonment for illegal possession of forest produce.

Sembwa was arrested by the State House Anti-Corruption Unit (SH-ACU) in collaboration with the Criminal Investigations Directorate (CID) after he was found in possession of more than 200 pieces of timber illegally cut from Mabira Forest. The timber was recovered during a search at his stores near the forest in Najjembe Division, Lugazi Municipality.

Sembwa, described as a notorious illegal logger, has been repeatedly arrested by Police and charged over similar offenses but had never been convicted until now. His conviction marks a significant step in the fight against illegal logging and the destruction of Uganda’s forests.

SH-ACU commenced investigations into the illegal destruction of Mabira Forest following a directive from H.E. the President, who has consistently condemned deforestation. The President has previously emphasized:

“Whoever destroys forests is an enemy of the country because forests work as a system, and when one part of the system is tampered with, the entire system is affected.”

The cost of deforestation in Uganda is estimated at more than 500,000 acres of forest destroyed annually, the equivalent of 43 football fields every hour. In 2021 alone, the country lost 49,000 hectares of tree cover, contributing to approximately 23.5 million tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions.

Ongoing investigations have so far exposed widespread illegal activities, including encroachment for agriculture, logging, charcoal burning, and even the unlawful creation of land titles on forest land.

The conviction of Sembwa is a warning to all those engaging in illegal forest activities. The State House Anti-Corruption Unit reiterates its commitment to ensuring that all culprits are brought to book in order to protect Uganda’s forests.