The issues regarding errors in Uganda’s population census continue to cause confusion among the public, raising concerns about the accuracy and reliability of the country’s demographic data.
These inconsistencies have ignited public debate and suspicion, leading to increased pressure on the Uganda Bureau of Statistics (UBOS).
In response to the growing outcry, the Inspector General of Government (IGG), Betty Kamya, has launched a new investigation into UBOS following their admission of errors in the 2024 census results, particularly regarding the population figures for ethnic groups and religions.
The move comes after UBOS admitted to errors in the population figures related to tribal and religious demographics, sparking public outcry and accusations of data manipulation.
On Monday, UBOS acknowledged that population data for four ethnic groups, Bakiga, Bagisu, Acholi, and Langi, had been wrongly interchanged.
According to the 2024 census, the Bagisu population had reportedly dropped from 2,390,975 in 2014 to 2,096,149, while the Acholi population decreased from 2,131,443 in 2014 to 1,941,913 in 2024.
These inconsistencies drew sharp criticism, with many questioning the integrity of the data.
Speaking to journalists on Thursday ahead of International Ombudsman Day, Kamya revealed that her office is closely examining how such errors could occur, especially given that UBOS was fully funded to conduct the census.
“We shall look into how the funds were spent and how the entire census process was conducted,” Kamya said, hinting at a comprehensive audit of UBOS operations.
This is not the first time UBOS has come under the scrutiny of the Inspectorate.
Kamya noted that in the financial year 2022, her office uncovered mismanagement of government funds within UBOS, leading to the recovery of nearly one billion shillings from culpable staff members.
“This is an interesting case, and we shall get involved again,” Kamya added.
International Ombudsman Day: Promoting Accountability and Service Delivery Kamya’s comments come as the country prepares to celebrate International Ombudsman Day on November 6, under the theme “Here to Hear You.”
The day aims to raise awareness of the role of the ombudsman in promoting good governance and enhancing public service delivery.
According to Kamya, the ombudsman plays a vital role in mediating between citizens and the government, ensuring that grievances such as delayed services, unpaid salaries, and administrative injustices are addressed.
Over the past financial year, the Inspectorate has resolved 636 Ombudsman cases and recovered more than 9.6 billion shillings in unpaid employment benefits.
Kamya also urged other agencies responsible for handling public complaints to ensure that issues are addressed promptly.
“Agencies should provide feedback within two to four weeks on the actions taken or the outcomes of interventions,” she emphasised, calling on citizens to report cases of maladministration to promote transparency and combat corruption in Uganda.
As the investigation into UBOS continues, the IGG’s office reaffirms its commitment to ensuring accountability within public institutions, making sure that taxpayer funds are used efficiently and transparently.
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