Fight Corruption to Achieve Upper-Middle-Income Status, Minister Urges Busoga Residents

JINJA CITY – Ugandans have been called upon to embrace equity, trust in God, and take a firm stand against corruption as the nation strives for upper-middle-income status. The appeal was made yesterday during a Sabbath service at the SDA Church Mafubira in Jinja City.

Addressing the congregation, Hon. Milly Babalanda who also serves as Minister in Charge of the Presidency encouraged the people of Busoga to join him in serving all Ugandans fairly and without discrimination. He urged the faithful to remain steadfast in their trust in God, noting that divine guidance would pave the way for their success regardless of any opposition or enemies they may face.

“I implored the congregation to stick to and trust God in whatever they plan to do, because He will always pave the way for them, no matter who their enemies are,” the Minister said.

He also took a moment to express profound gratitude to H.E. President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni for the trust reposed in him throughout his career. He recounted his journey from appointment as Deputy RDC, through his role as Senior Presidential Advisor (SPA) on political affairs, to his current position as Minister In Charge of the Presidency for two consecutive terms. He noted with thanksgiving to God that his legacy in public service has remained free of any scandal.

The Minister further rallied Ugandans to intensify efforts in combating corruption, describing it as a major obstacle to national development. He echoed the President’s declaration made during his swearing-in ceremony at Kololo: “This Kisanja no sleeping and no more corruption.”

“It is our responsibility as Ugandans to fight corruption because it affects us all,” the Minister emphasized, highlighting that corruption has multiple direct and indirect effects on the Ugandan economy. He noted that the majority of the impact manifests itself in lost efficiency, reduced investment, and weakened public services.

According to the Minister, when public funds are diverted, projects cost more while delivering less. Roads, hospitals, and schools are under-built, while other social services suffer delays. He cited figures from the Inspectorate of Government, which estimates that corruption costs Uganda approximately UGX 10 trillion per year—equivalent to 9.4% of the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

The Minister concluded by urging every citizen to take personal responsibility in the fight against graft, warning that without integrity and accountability, Uganda’s dream of achieving upper-middle-income status would remain elusive.