Uganda’s public service continues to face serious corruption challenges, with bribery undermining merit-based recruitment and public trust.
Inspector General of Government (IGG) Beti Kamya revealed that over 35% of public service jobs were secured through bribery, raising concerns about qualifications and service delivery.
The study revealed that a significant number of public service workers secured their jobs by paying bribes. Many of these individuals may not have met the necessary qualifications for their roles.
“As a result of our efforts, DSCs have rescinded the appointments of over 100 workers due to irregularities,” Kamya said.
Kamya made these revelations during the launch of the IGG Report on the Assessment of the Cost and Extent of Corruption in Recruitment by District Service Commissions, held at Hotel Africana on Wednesday, August 20, 2025.
Rt Hon Robinah Nabbanja, Prime Minister and representative of President Museveni, emphasized the importance of accountability in public service recruitment.
“The NRM introduced reforms to decentralize recruitment, empowering independent district service commissions to promote local decision-making and accountability,” she noted.
Nabbanja called on the IGG, Public Service Commission, and Ministry of Public Service must vigilantly oversee recruitment and hold those who engage in wrongdoing accountable.
Catherine Bitarakwate Musingwiire, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Public Service, urged adherence to recruitment timelines. “We recommend following recruitment schedules to prevent last-minute emergencies, which can create opportunities for corruption, especially towards the end of the financial yea,” PS Bitarakwate said.
According to the PS, the ministry is working to cultivate a positive public service culture. Let’s collectively define the standards we want to uphold and condemn practices that undermine our values.
Ben Kumumanya, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Local Government, called on citizens to report corrupt practices. “One of our challenges is that people often fail to report these corrupt practices. Reports help us prosecute perpetrators. I urge citizens to report incidents of corruption to the relevant authorities. Let’s stand up and be counted,” he said.
Brig. Gen. Henry Rusoke, Head of the Anti-Corruption Unit, highlighted the need for digital recruitment. “IGG did an excellent job highlighting corruption in recruitment. At the Anti-Graft Unit, we receive complaints daily about jobs being sold. I commend the Public Service Commission for rolling out the e-recruitment approach. The sooner it is fully implemented, the better,” he added.
The IGG report shows the urgent need for stronger oversight, public vigilance, and merit-based recruitment to ensure competent personnel fill positions across Uganda’s public service. Uganda’s public service boasts about 470,000 jobs.
