MILLY BABALANDA: RDCs and RCCs at the Heart of Uganda’s Battle to Defend Public Funds and Stop Corruption

The fight against corruption has entered a new phase in Uganda, driven by a strong commitment from President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni’s government to protect taxpayers’ money, strengthen public accountability and ensure that national resources are used to improve the lives of citizens. Corruption is not just about stolen finances; it is about lost opportunities that affect families, communities and the country’s development journey.

As Minister for the Presidency, I have continued to supervise the work of Resident District Commissioners (RDCs), Resident City Commissioners (RCCs), and their deputies and assistants, who remain among the most important government officers in the protection of public resources. As the President’s representatives in districts and cities, they provide critical oversight by monitoring government projects, following up on service delivery and ensuring that public investments benefit the people.

Across Uganda, RDCs and RCCs have played a crucial role in exposing weaknesses and preventing misuse of government resources. Through their routine monitoring of schools, health facilities, roads, water projects, markets and other government programmes, they have identified delayed projects, poor workmanship, questionable payments, fraudulent dealings and other forms of financial abuse. Their vigilance has helped save taxpayers’ money and improve the implementation of government initiatives.
Much of the work done by RDCs and RCCs happens quietly, away from public attention. Their responsibility is not built around publicity but around institutional reporting and action. Through detailed monitoring reports submitted to the Office of the President through the Ministry for the Presidency, they provide valuable information that helps government identify challenges, strengthen oversight systems and respond to areas where accountability needs improvement.

The current national campaign against corruption should therefore be understood as a reinforcement of the structures that have been working for years. I commend Hon. Balaam Barugahara and my daughter Justine Nameere for their efforts in increasing public awareness and giving greater momentum to the fight against corruption. Their engagements have complemented the work of RDCs, RCCs and other government agencies involved in safeguarding public resources.

I urge all RDCs, RCCs and their deputies to remain active and fully engaged whenever inspection and investigation teams visit their areas of responsibility. Their knowledge of government projects, previous monitoring reports and local challenges is essential in helping establish facts, address weaknesses and ensure that corrective measures are implemented effectively.

While the RDC and RCC structure has achieved many successes, we also recognise that challenges exist. A few officers have failed to uphold the standards expected of them, and government has acted through appropriate administrative measures whenever wrongdoing has been confirmed. At the same time, some dedicated officers have faced attacks from individuals who benefit from corruption and attempt to discredit those working to protect public resources. Every allegation must be handled fairly, ensuring both accountability and justice.
The fight against corruption is a shared responsibility that requires commitment from leaders, public servants and citizens. The information provided by Ugandans through community engagements and official channels remains a powerful weapon in exposing misuse of resources. With President Museveni’s continued political will and the dedication of government institutions, Uganda can build a stronger culture of accountability. RDCs and RCCs will continue to stand as frontline defenders of taxpayers’ money, ensuring that national resources serve the interests of all Ugandans.
The author is the Minister for the Presidency and Budiope West Member of Parliament.