By Leonard Kamugisha Akida,
KAMPALA
The Inspectorate of Government (IG) has announced plans to launch investigations into the rapid rise of high-end buildings across Kampala, particularly in the city’s suburbs, in a renewed effort to clamp down on corruption.
The Inspector General of Government (IGG), Hon. Beti Kamya, revealed that many of the newly built mansions are allegedly owned by public officials and politicians whose wealth appears disproportionate to their known sources of income.
“We are alerting all individuals with properties that seem to be beyond their legitimate earnings, be ready to explain, with proof, where the money came from,” Kamya said. “Otherwise, we are coming for you.”
Kamya made the remarks during a press briefing to mark the African Union Convention on Preventing and Combating Corruption (AUCPCC) Day, celebrated every July 11. This year’s commemoration will be held under the theme: “Promoting Human Dignity in the Fight Against Corruption.”
Kampala has witnessed a surge in unregulated construction, with several multi-storey properties emerging in upscale neighbourhoods. While many are registered under private individuals, suspicion is mounting that public funds may be fueling these developments.
Though some political observers suspect the probe could be used to target opposition figures ahead of the 2026 general elections, Kamya dismissed the claims, insisting the move is non-partisan and solely aimed at curbing corruption through asset tracing.
“We are shifting focus. Previously, we relied heavily on whistleblower information, which often resulted in lengthy and costly investigations with little success in court,” Kamya said. “Now we are directly targeting the proceeds; buildings and assets and asking their owners to account.”
She said the new strategy would reverse the burden of proof, requiring property owners to justify how they acquired the wealth used to finance the construction.
“If your income doesn’t match what you own, you’ll have to explain and convincingly,” Kamya warned.
The IG’s announcement marks a significant shift in Uganda’s anti-corruption approach, signalling a tougher stance on illicit enrichment as the country continues to grapple with widespread graft in both public and private sectors.
