Today, as Uganda joins the continent in observing the African Anti-Corruption Day 2025, the focus hinges on an important, yet often overlooked, casualty of graft: human dignity.
Under the theme, “Promoting Human Dignity in the Fight Against Corruption,” Uganda reflects on the devastating financial and societal toll of corruption, urging a united front to safeguard fundamental human rights.
The African Anti-Corruption Day, designated by the African Union, commemorates the adoption of the African Union Convention on Preventing and Combating Corruption (AUCPCC) in Maputo, Mozambique, on July 11, 2003.
Ratified by 48 Member States, including Uganda in 2007, the Convention serves as a bedrock for continental efforts against graft.
Direct Assault on Human Dignity
Ms. Betti Kamya Turyomwe, the Inspector General of Government (IGG), said while addressing the press at the Uganda Media Centre today, that “The theme for this year’s commemoration underscores that human dignity is intricately linked to the respect and fulfilment of human rights and freedoms. Corruption, tragically, stands in direct opposition to this ideal.”
“Its insidious reach undermines essential public services like healthcare and education, compromises justice systems, and erodes trust in governance, thereby directly impacting the most vulnerable segments of society,” she added.
This perspective, according to IGG Kamya, is particularly resonant as the African Union pursues justice for Africans and People of African Descent through reparations.
Kamya observed the enduring impact of corruption on human dignity, noting that it mirrors historical injustices, highlighting how systemic graft perpetuates the denial of justice that Africans have faced through slavery, colonialism, and ongoing discrimination.
She pointed out that achieving true human dignity, whether through combating contemporary corruption or redressing historical wrongs, demands unwavering commitment to justice, equity, and accountability.
Billions Lost, Development Stifled
The scale of corruption across Africa is alarming. The African Union estimates that a staggering US$140 billion is lost through corruption annually, a sum equivalent to the GDP of nearly all but 43 out of 48 countries on the continent. This colossal drain, Kamya stressed, diverts resources from critical development initiatives, perpetuating poverty and inequality.
She revealed that, according to Transparency International’s 2024 Corruption Perception Index (CPI), Sub-Saharan Africa registered the lowest average score globally, at just 33 out of 100, with most countries falling below 50%. While Seychelles (72%), Cape Verde (62%), Botswana (57%), and Rwanda (57%) lead the region, Uganda scored a concerning 26%, indicating significant room for improvement in its anti-corruption efforts.
Uganda Loses Shs10 Trillion Annually
Domestically, a study initiated by Uganda’s Inspectorate of Government (IG) reveals a shocking Shs10 trillion lost annually to corruption. This immense sum, Kamya rightly argued, could fund vital infrastructure, improve public services, or directly uplift millions from poverty.
Progress and Persistent Challenges
However, Kamya revealed that despite the immense challenge, Uganda is actively combating corruption. She explained that the Inspectorate of Government has demonstrated notable achievements over the years, which include:
Investigations: 2,218 corruption cases investigated in 2024.
Administrative Actions: 1,204 public officials faced administrative actions.
Recoveries: Shs6.8 billion in cash and assets recovered.
Conviction Rates: Impressive conviction rates of 40.6% at the Anti-Corruption Court and 94.7% at the Leadership Code Tribunal.
She divulged that the IG’s reach has also expanded with 16 regional offices, and it actively collaborates with international bodies to strengthen its fight.
United Front for a Dignified Future
The 2025 African Anti-Corruption Day is not merely a commemoration; it’s a vital platform for action. Key objectives include:
Reinforcing people-centred approaches through promoting human dignity in the prevention, investigation, and prosecution of corruption.
Raising awareness by empowering citizens, especially vulnerable groups, about their rights and the importance of demanding transparency and accountability in public service.
Aligning frameworks through encouraging Member States to harmonise national anti-corruption laws with the AUCPCC and human rights instruments.
Protecting whistleblowers by ensuring the dignity and safety of those who report corruption through legal and psychosocial support.
Kamya stated that the expected outcomes are clear: a shared understanding among stakeholders on integrating human dignity into anti-corruption efforts, a clear roadmap for implementation, and strengthened collaboration across all sectors, which include the government, civil society, anti-corruption agencies, development partners, and citizens.