Officials in the Busoga sub-region attribute their corrupt practices to inadequate salaries, as reported by the Inspectorate of Government (IGG) after recent interactions.

Gerald Gwaira from the Ombudsman’s office notes that public servants claim their low wages sometimes hinder their ability to perform their duties.

“During our corruption prevention and awareness training sessions in Kamuli, Kaliro, and Namutumba districts, many public servants admitted to engaging in corrupt activities due to insufficient pay,” shared Gwaira with various stakeholders in Namutumba District.

However, Gwaira emphasized that their findings indicate that corruption is not necessarily linked to salary levels, as misappropriation occurs even among well-compensated individuals, likely driven by greed.

The IGG’s office has realized that arresting those guilty of corruption is less effective than preventing the act through advocacy and awareness training.

“The IGG’s office plans to set up forums across the Busoga sub-region to tackle corruption. The fight against corruption is a collective responsibility, not just for President Museveni and the IGG,” he stated.

According to the IGG, Uganda loses roughly Shs10 trillion to corruption each year.

“If we don’t unite against corruption, it could spell the end for Uganda,” he cautioned, suggesting that the poverty in the region reflects misconduct by trusted officials.

Joseph Mulamuzi, an IGG officer, pointed out that corruption in Uganda extends beyond public servants to politicians and individuals who misuse government funds without repayment.

He mentioned the misuse of Social Assistance Grants and the failure of contractors who receive government contracts to deliver as promised.

Kagere Kauma, a senior administrative officer in Namutumba District, urged thorough investigations into individuals who do not repay government loans.

Charles Nabanja, the chairperson of Namutumba central market, requested IGG Betty Kamya to look into Resident District Commissioners (RDCs) who overstep their roles by adjudicating land disputes