The Inspectorate of Government (IG) has launched a five-year strategic plan aimed at transforming Uganda’s anti-corruption efforts from reactive enforcement to proactive, intelligence-led governance. Covering the period from 2026 to 2030, the plan seeks to embed anti-corruption measures across all government operations, aligning with national frameworks such as Uganda Vision 2040 and the Fourth National Development Plan.
Speaking at the launch in Kampala, Inspector General of Government Lady Justice Aisha Naluzze Batala described the initiative as a “bold declaration of intent” to strengthen institutional resilience and restore public trust. A central shift involves decentralizing aspects of the IG’s ombudsman functions to district and lower administrative levels, enabling faster resolution of complaints closer to citizens. Robert Lumanisa Lugolobi, Director of Anti-Corruption at the IG, explained this move addresses limitations of a centralized structure and will improve localized oversight.
The strategy also emphasizes the integration of advanced technology, including AI-enabled verification and data screening, to enhance investigative precision and decision-making. Officials noted a pivot from compliance-driven investigations toward prevention, with inspections now prioritizing prosecution alongside asset recovery to deter repeat offenses. Over the past five years, the IG recommended the recovery of UGX 69.37 billion, successfully reclaiming UGX 54.88 billion.
The plan’s urgency is underscored by the scale of corruption in Uganda. A 2021 study supported by GIZ estimated that the country loses approximately 44% of annual government revenue to corrupt practices, including bribery, ghost workers, and theft of supplies. Financially, corruption is estimated to cost the economy 9.144 trillion shillings each year. A separate National Service Delivery Survey by UBOS identified bribery (27%) and embezzlement (17%) as the most prevalent forms, driven by greed and the pursuit of quick money.
The IG reported a rise in citizen-reported cases over the last five years, with 10,968 cases sanctioned and 4,112 corruption investigations concluded. The new strategy aims to foster greater public participation and strengthen prevention mechanisms across ministries, departments, agencies, and local governments. Key performance indicators include improved corruption perception rankings, higher conviction rates, and enhanced digital and forensic capacities.
Deputy Head of Public Service Jane Mwesiga urged that the plan translate into concrete, measurable actions across all government tiers. The IG’s strategic direction signals a comprehensive effort to mainstream anti-corruption into daily public administration, protect public resources, and improve service delivery for Ugandans. Success will depend on sustained implementation, technological adoption, and active citizen engagement to achieve a corruption-free Uganda.
