By Spy Uganda
Brig. Gen. Henry Isoke, the head of the State House Anti-Corruption Unit (SHACU), on Friday addressed over 725 student leaders from universities and other higher institutions of learning during a Patriotism and Ideological Training program held at Nkumba University, Entebbe. The event, coordinated by Col. Justus Rukondo, the Camp Commandant, and Lt. Col. Akasius Mpabaisi, Chief Instructor, aimed to prepare the youth for leadership and equip them with the tools to combat corruption.
In his presentation, Gen. Isoke emphasized the devastating effects of corruption, noting that it hinders national development, encourages brain drain, and discourages foreign investment. He revealed that between 2018 and 2022, close to 230,000 young Ugandans left for work opportunities abroad, mainly in the Middle East, partly due to limited prospects at home caused by corruption. He also pointed out that corruption results in poor infrastructure, substandard healthcare, environmental degradation, and growing income inequality.
The General commended the existing legal frameworks and institutions, such as the Anti-Corruption Act, Whistleblowers Protection Act, and bodies like the IGG, PPDA, DPP, SH-ACU, and the Anti-Corruption Court, as critical tools in the fight against corruption. However, he emphasized that laws alone are not enough. He called on citizens to actively use these mechanisms to hold offenders accountable. The students recommended enhanced public education and greater enforcement of these laws for maximum impact.
Despite the prevalence of corruption, Gen. Isoke noted Uganda’s achievements, including steady GDP growth at 6% in the 2023/24 financial year, increased life expectancy at 68.2 years, and the transition to lower middle-income status. He also highlighted youth-focused initiatives like the Youth Livelihood Program and Presidential Industrial Hubs, which aim to foster economic empowerment and wealth creation.
He urged the youth leaders to uphold ethical values, embrace patriotism, and participate actively in programs that nurture national pride. He commended the National Secretariat for Patriotism Corps (NSPC) for promoting patriotism among the youth and thanked Nkumba University for hosting the program.
Tackling Corruption: Gen. Isoke’s Track Record
As the head of SHACU, Gen. Isoke has led investigations into significant corruption scandals, including embezzlement of government funds, fraudulent procurement practices, and abuse of office. Some of his notable achievements include uncovering the misuse of COVID-19 funds, exposing inflated procurement contracts, and addressing corruption at local government levels. His leadership has not only resulted in the recovery of billions in stolen public funds but has also ensured accountability for several corrupt officials.
Gen. Henry Isoke is a distinguished officer of the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) and a passionate anti-corruption advocate. He holds a Master’s degree in Security Studies and a Bachelor’s degree in Public Administration. With over 30 years of service, his career highlights include:
- Head of SHACU (2021 – Present): Leading Uganda’s anti-corruption efforts by investigating and prosecuting corrupt officials.
- Director of Counter-Terrorism, UPDF (2015 – 2021): Strengthening national and regional security strategies.
- Commandant, Senior Staff and Command College, Jinja (2010 – 2015): Managing the professional development of senior military personnel.
Gen. Isoke’s commitment to justice and good governance continues to inspire young leaders and institutions, making him a key figure in Uganda’s battle against corruption.
