Ugandans are being encouraged to speak out against corruption in schools, hospitals and government institutions as the State House Anti-Corruption Unit intensifies its “Expose the Corrupt” campaign.
The campaign calls on citizens to report suspected corruption under the message, “See Something, Say Something,” urging the public to play an active role in promoting accountability and protecting public resources.
It follows President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni’s call for greater accountability in public service, with campaign information citing 267 arrests, 253 officials removed from their positions and Shs22.7 billion under investigation in connection with anti-corruption efforts.
The initiative has also drawn attention to the impact of corruption on ordinary Ugandans, particularly in the education and health sectors, where the misuse of public funds and demands for bribes can undermine service delivery.
In schools, concerns include deteriorating infrastructure and the alleged diversion of resources intended to improve learning conditions. In the health sector, corruption can create barriers for patients seeking services and weaken public confidence in healthcare institutions.
Online messages supporting the campaign are also urging Ugandans to become more informed about corruption by reading articles, watching educational videos and listening to podcasts on the subject.
Supporters argue that understanding how corruption occurs, the harm it causes and the mechanisms available to address it can help citizens make informed decisions and educate others about the importance of accountability.
Other messages call on citizens to support anti-corruption legislation in Uganda and within their respective industries, with the aim of strengthening laws and regulations that encourage ethical conduct and discourage abuse of office.
The campaign emphasises that fighting corruption requires more than government investigations and arrests. Public participation, access to information and effective reporting mechanisms are also important in identifying suspected wrongdoing and strengthening oversight of public institutions.
How Ugandans can report suspected corruption
The State House Anti-Corruption Unit has publicised several channels through which members of the public can submit reports:
- Toll-free telephone: 0800202500
- WhatsApp: 0778202500
- Email: Through the Unit’s official reporting channel.
The campaign encourages citizens to provide clear and factual information about suspected corruption through the available channels. Where possible, reports should include relevant details or supporting evidence, while avoiding the spread of unverified allegations on social media.
The availability of anonymous reporting can help people raise concerns while protecting their identities, although individuals should confirm the confidentiality arrangements of the specific reporting channel they use.
As the “Expose the Corrupt” campaign gains attention online, its central message is that tackling corruption requires collective responsibility, from public institutions tasked with enforcing the law to citizens willing to report suspected wrongdoing.
For Uganda, the challenge remains to ensure that reports are properly investigated, public resources are protected and those found responsible are held accountable in accordance with the law.
