IGG calls for stronger action against gender-related corruption in health, education sectors

What the report says

Uganda’s Inspector General of Government, Lady Justice Aisha Naluzze Batala, has urged stronger institutional measures to curb gender-related corruption, with particular attention to the health and education sectors. According to Watchdog Uganda, she said corrupt practices in public service delivery can hit women, girls and other vulnerable groups hardest by limiting access to care, schooling and other essential services.

Batala made the remarks in Kampala while opening a two-day workshop on gender and corruption at Onomo Hotel. The meeting was organised by the Inspectorate of Government with support from the Embassy of Denmark in Uganda and with collaboration from the Embassy of Sweden, the United Kingdom’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, and the U4 Anti-Corruption Resource Centre. More than 15 stakeholders attended to examine how corruption affects people differently based on gender.

She warned that corruption is not only about stolen public funds or inflated contracts, but also about abuses that violate rights and weaken trust in public institutions. She specifically highlighted sexual corruption, describing it as a hidden form of abuse that can pressure women and girls into giving sexual favours in exchange for services, grades or opportunities. Batala said reporting systems should be safer and more responsive so victims can come forward without fear of stigma or retaliation.

The Deputy British High Commissioner to Uganda, Tiffany Kirlew, also attended and encouraged open discussion. The workshop is expected to produce recommendations for reforms aimed at improving accountability, transparency and equitable access to health and education services.