The Inspectorate of Government under Hon Betty Kamya has initiated a thorough investigation into alleged misconduct and financial irregularities at the Uganda Investment Authority (UIA). Finance State Minister Evelyn Anite and UIA’s board chairperson Morrison Rwakakamba have been implicated in accusations ranging from mismanagement, embezzlement, abuse of office, corruption, to causing financial loss to the government.
Originally focused solely on UIA’s top officials, the probe has now expanded to include Minister Anite and Rwakakamba, according to Ali Munira, the IG’s spokesperson. The investigation encompasses several critical areas including land allocation processes, UIA’s payroll management, and the development of Kampala Industrial and Business Park (KIBP) in Namanve. Munira confirmed the investigation to New Vision, stating that suspects have provided statements, although specific details were withheld.
Initially handled by the Criminal Investigation Directorate (CID) under case reference number 275/2023, the investigation was transferred to the Inspectorate of Government (IGG) in October of the previous year. Sources within the Inspectorate disclosed that Anite, Rwakakamba, and other UIA officials are required to explain allegations related to corruption in land allocation and industrial park development.
Recent developments indicate that UIA officials, particularly Mukiza, who initially cooperated with authorities, shifted blame onto Anite and Rwakakamba, prompting their inclusion in the expanded investigation. In January, the Inspectorate conducted a raid on UIA offices in Nakaseru as part of the ongoing inquiry.
The IGG’s scrutiny also extends to various aspects of UIA’s operations over the past three financial years, including structural integrity, staffing details, contractual obligations, and compliance with HR protocols. Key personnel such as Ahmed Busoobozi, Alice Ndagire, Joanitah Kambedha, and Alex Nuwagira are under investigation concerning recruitment practices and project management responsibilities.
Additionally, the IGG is investigating the mysterious disappearance of personal files belonging to UIA Deputy Director General Dr. Paul Kyalimpa and Director of Investment Promotion and Business Development Peter Muramira. Detailed financial audits, including budget approvals, workplans, quarterly schedules, and payroll records, are also being scrutinized to uncover any discrepancies.
The investigation into land allocations involves a comprehensive review of the industrial park’s establishment plan, financial documentation including bills of quantities, and specific transactions like the requisition of funds for MBW and PM Excellence. The IGG has requested detailed banking information and verification of authorized signatories from UIA.
Furthermore, the investigation encompasses UIA’s dealings with Tirupati Uganda Limited, which litigated against UIA in 2021 and secured a judgment in July of the subsequent year concerning land allocations. Questions also surround the assessment of taxes amounting to sh9 billion for the contractor Dott-Lagan, with the IGG seeking clarity on Uganda Revenue Authority’s role in this matter.
Minister Anite acknowledged awareness of the IGG’s investigation but stated she had not yet been contacted to provide a statement. “She has not called me yet. I am looking forward to her calling me,” Anite told New Vision.
In conclusion, the investigation into UIA has evolved into a complex inquiry spanning multiple facets of governance and financial oversight, reflecting heightened scrutiny over allegations of misconduct within Uganda’s investment sector.
