A senior official at the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA), Dr. Rachel Mbabazi, is under investigation for allegedly extorting Shs47 million from an 87-year-old conservation investor, a case government officials are calling a serious abuse of office and breach of public trust.
The allegations were revealed by Col. Edith Nakalema, head of the State House Investors Protection Unit, who condemned the act as both illegal and unethical.
“This is not only abuse of office but also a criminal act. It is unacceptable for a public officer to receive money in their personal account while seated in a government office,” Nakalema stated.
According to Nakalema, Dr. Mbabazi allegedly received the money directly into her personal bank and mobile money accounts from Hajji Isaac Mulindwa, a licensed wildlife conservationist. Despite Mulindwa being granted a valid wildlife license in May 2023 to receive 100 wild animals, only 31 had been delivered by mid-2025.
Nakalema attributed the delay to obstruction and financial demands from Dr. Mbabazi.
The State House Anti-Corruption Unit, led by Brig. Gen. Henry Isoke, has taken over the case for further investigation. Meanwhile, UWA has also launched internal disciplinary proceedings against Mbabazi.
“This case shows how a single officer, acting without oversight, can frustrate a government-supported investment for nearly two years. If an 87-year-old national hero can be extorted, there could be many other silent victims,” Nakalema added.
The Uganda Wildlife Authority, the agency responsible for managing and regulating the country’s wildlife, confirmed that the alleged extortion violated its strict cashless financial policy. The authority plans to begin delivery of the remaining animals on July 28.
UWA’s Director for Biodiversity Management, John Miombo, apologized to the public and the investor.
“This was an individual action. It should not tarnish the image of the institution,” Miombo said.
Mbabazi has since been handed over for prosecution, while UWA prepares to take disciplinary action through its human resource department.
Col. Nakalema urged all government entities to strengthen internal controls and audit operations regularly. She also advised investors to avoid direct transactions with individual officials.
“Let this be a wake-up call. Don’t give unchecked power to individuals. Strengthen internal controls and uphold transparency,” she emphasized.
The State House Investors Protection Unit reaffirmed its commitment to defending investor rights and encouraged the public to report any similar cases of abuse or extortion.
As the investigation unfolds, the case stands as a warning against complacency within government institutions. Restoring public trust requires swift justice, transparent processes, and a commitment to rooting out corruption at every level.
