This Anti-Corruption Helpdesk brief was produced in response to a query from a U4 Partner Agency. The U4 Helpdesk is operated by Transparency International in collaboration with the U4 Anti-Corruption Resource Centre based at the Chr. Michelsen Institute.
Query
Can you please provide an overview of corruption and anti-corruption in Uganda, with a focus on public financial management?
Purpose
Support a new country strategy for development cooperation with Uganda
Content
1. Overview of corruption in Uganda
2. Governance structure and anti-corruption efforts
3. References
4. Additional Resources
Summary
Corruption in Uganda is widespread and seen as one of the greatest obstacles to the country’s economic development as well as to the provision of quality public services. Corruption-related challenges in the country system from a weak separation between the public and private spheres, leading to extensive clientelistic practices and patronage, as well as widespread political corruption. Such corruption challenges are exacerbated by weak law enforcement, which fuels a culture of impunity, particularly with regards to high-ranking officials involved in corruption schemes. Corruption affects a wide range of sectors and government institutions, including procurement, police, and the defence, education and health sectors. As an aid dependent country, Uganda needs a sound public financial management system, to ensure donors’ funds are spent wisely and leakages are avoided. In spite of reforms, there is still room to improve the level of transparency and accountability of the country’s public financial management system. The Ugandan government has acknowledged that corruption is one of the main challenges facing the country. But recent developments have raise questions on the government’s political will to address it. Several reforms, laws and new institutions to fight corruption have been established. However, in spite of recent investigations and corruption trials, an effective enforcement of the laws in place is still lacking.
Authors
Maira Martini, Transparency International, [email protected]
Reviewers
Marie Chene, Transparency International, [email protected] Banoba, Transparency International, [email protected]: We thank Transparency International Uganda for their contribution
Date
08/04/2013
