Corruption and its impact on our society was the key topic at today’s breakfast event. The impact of corruption on public trust goes beyond finances but cuts right across the fabric of society.
The public is largely aware of the severity of the problem, across the region they have lost faith in government and public institutions to address corruption and are increasingly disengaged.
In his speech, Maurice Makoloo, the Regional Director Ford Foundation emphasized that this disengagement and resignation by the public extends to civil society. Civil society is increasingly seen by the public as unrepresentative of their interests and worse, self-motivated.
This has particularly deleterious implications for the strength of civil society throughout the region to work with government and hold public officials accountable.
“We believe in putting our money where our mouth is and so it gives me great pleasure to announce that we are committing to spend $25 million (over Shs91.8 b) in East Africa over the next five years to support this goal. With this investment we hope to see governments prioritize corruption, a stronger and expanded civil society and most importantly, strengthening of coalitions across all sectors to provide better service to citizens and allow for more equity and equality.” Makoloo said.
Lind Ochiel Program Officer Ford Foundation, ended the event with a call to action to all citizens to continue engaging and not to give into the hopelessness that seems to engulf citizens and asked for more collaboration to achieve the change that Ugandans are ultimately seeking.
The event discussion was led by a panel of stakeholders and grantees who included; Hon Anna Adeke, Dennis Pato Executive Director Vijana Corps, Sarah Biretee Associate Director Centre for Constitutional Governance (CCG) and moderated by Samson Kasumba.