Ugandan Youth Urged to Take Active Role in Fighting Corruption

Brig. Gen. Henry Isoke, head of the State House Anti-Corruption Unit, has called on Ugandan youth to actively contribute to the fight against corruption, emphasizing their responsibility in shaping a corruption-free society. Speaking during the launch of the National Students Participation in the Fight Against Corruption program at Makerere University, Isoke challenged young people to reflect on their personal role in tackling the vice.

“As much as you blame the government, what have you done to ensure that corruption is fought? Each one of us has a role to play,” he said, urging the youth to be part of the solution.

The dialogue, organized by the Makerere University Guild President's office, focused on the youth’s perspectives on the impact of corruption on social and economic transformation. Themed “Universities Without Walls: Revolutionising University Institutions as the Engine for Transformational Sustainability,” the event highlighted the role of students in creating a corruption-free society.

Gen. Isoke emphasized the government's efforts, explaining that President Yoweri Museveni has consistently set up institutional frameworks and enacted laws to combat corruption. “The President has set up well-thought-out institutional frameworks and encouraged the enactment of several laws,” Isoke noted. He urged the youth to think critically and be more analytical rather than being reactionary activists. “As intellectuals, you must study policy and not just run around with negativity. Be independent and analytical,” he added.

Isoke highlighted the overwhelming workload faced by the Anti-Corruption Unit, which receives between 150 and 200 complaints daily. Since its establishment, the unit has handled over 687,000 complaints, leading to the prosecution of hundreds of public and private sector individuals. “We have convicted 102 individuals, including 64 public officers and 58 private individuals,” he said.

He urged young people to resist manipulation by individuals with ulterior motives, emphasizing the importance of non-violent, informed activism. “Don’t accept to be used as pawns. Be aware that some demonstrations are manipulated by individuals with their own agendas,” he warned.

Also speaking at the event, Col. Edith Nakalema, head of the State House Investors Protection Unit, stressed the need for youth involvement in addressing corruption and unemployment. “Our President consistently teaches every able-bodied Ugandan to get involved in efforts to enhance their welfare,” she said, encouraging collective efforts to build a corruption-free Uganda.

The event featured insights from several leaders, including Makerere University Vice Chancellor Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, who underscored the importance of intellectual debate in addressing corruption. He highlighted the need to shift mindsets and practices that perpetuate corrupt behavior.

The program concluded with a call for youth engagement in national transformation efforts, reminding attendees that corruption is not just a governmental issue but one that starts with individual responsibility.