By Spy Uganda
Kampala: The Inspector General of Government (IGG), Beti Kamya, has announced that only UGX 2.3 billion was recovered from corrupt individuals between January and June 2024, despite the agency recommending a recovery of UGX 15.7 billion.
According to the IGG’s Bi-Annual Performance Report, the Inspectorate recorded 1,657 complaints during the first half of 2024, an increase from 1,276 complaints logged between July and December 2023. However, the amount recovered this year represents a decline compared to the UGX 2.7 billion recovered in the latter half of 2023, which had a recommended recovery target of UGX 10.3 billion.
Kamya presented the report to Speaker Anita Among, lamenting that Uganda loses an estimated UGX 10 trillion annually to corruption, which constitutes over 44% of the country’s annual revenue collections.
The IGG also highlighted rampant corruption in government job recruitment, revealing findings from a study conducted in 20 districts. The research focused on the cost and extent of corruption within district service commissions and indicated widespread irregularities in the recruitment process.
“We also conducted a cost-benefit analysis of outsourcing private recruitment firms by government departments and agencies. This was prompted by numerous complaints regarding irregular recruitment, and preliminary findings confirm widespread corruption in the recruitment process, particularly within district service commissions,” explained Kamya.
Despite being classified as a consumptive sector, Kamya asserted that the Inspectorate is crucial in saving and recovering funds, thereby ensuring that government resources are effectively utilized.
“A scientific study estimates that this country loses up to UGX 10 trillion per year to corruption. With adequate funding, the Inspectorate of Government could significantly reduce this figure. Losing UGX 10 trillion annually, which is nearly 44% of our domestic revenue, indicates a serious oversight of a vital sector,” she said.
Kamya urged Ugandans to participate in the fight against corruption, noting that during the reporting period, the Inspectorate prioritized preventive measures as a key strategy for eliminating corruption and promoting adherence to the rule of law. She emphasized the importance of public engagement in combating corruption, inviting citizens to recognize their role as victims of this societal issue.
After receiving the report, Speaker Among encouraged Kamya to strengthen relationships with the public and enhance awareness campaigns about the dangers of corruption in Uganda.
“I urge you to expand your outreach efforts to raise awareness about corruption and the misuse of government funds. Building friendships with the public will encourage them to come forward with information regarding corruption, serving as a valuable starting point. Increased awareness can help reduce corruption in our communities,” said Among.
The Speaker also expressed gratitude for Kamya’s consistent submission of performance reports to Parliament, noting that some agencies fail to comply with this requirement.
“We appreciate the significant work you are doing for this country. Together, we can bring about meaningful change, and Parliament will always support your efforts. I ask the Chairperson of the Legal and Parliamentary Affairs Committee to ensure that the IGG receives the highest level of assistance when she comes seeking support. Your contributions are invaluable to our nation,” remarked Among.
According to the Corruption Perception Index by Transparency International for 2023, Uganda scored 26 out of 100 and ranked 141 out of 180 countries in terms of corruption. The country only ranks better than Burundi, the Democratic Republic of Congo, South Sudan, and Somalia, which are ranked 162, 177, and 180, respectively, within the East African region.
East African nations ranking higher than Uganda include Rwanda (49), Tanzania (87), and Kenya (126), while Seychelles is recognized as the least corrupt nation in Africa, ranking 20th with a score of 71 out of 100.
