Deputy Inspector General of Government, Dr. Patricia Achan Okiria, has urged Uganda’s youth to take the lead in the fight against corruption by cultivating a culture of integrity, humility, and ethical leadership.
She made the call during a youth engagement session at Uganda Christian University, where she discussed her book The Touch of Humility: Leading with Compassion and Purpose. The 201-page memoir, launched in 2024 by Chief Justice Alfonse Owiny-Dollo, shares personal experiences from Dr. Okiria’s career and provides insights into fostering accountability in public service.
“As we work together for a corruption-free Uganda, young people must understand their power and responsibility in promoting integrity,” Dr. Okiria told students from various universities.
The event formed part of the ongoing Integrity Days campaign spearheaded by the Inspectorate of Government. The initiative aims to inspire a new generation of Ugandans committed to transparency, ethics, and civic responsibility.
Dr. Okiria emphasized that with over 70% of Uganda’s population being youth, their active participation is essential to national transformation. “This book is not just a personal reflection—it is a challenge to all Ugandans, especially the youth, to rise up and champion the cause of clean leadership,” she said.
She explained that humility is a powerful leadership trait that fosters listening, self-awareness, and a willingness to learn. Through real-life stories and case studies, the book illustrates how these values can translate into effective leadership and better public service.
Student leaders welcomed the message. John Vianny Ayebare, Guild President at the Law Development Centre (LDC) Kampala campus, described The Touch of Humility as “a national call to action” and a guide for young people to live with purpose and serve with integrity.
“The book not only documents Dr. Okiria’s remarkable public service journey but also equips readers with practical tools to participate in the fight against corruption,” Ayebare said.
Natasha Ampumuza, a student coordinator across LDC campuses, credited Dr. Okiria for mentoring youth through platforms like YO–SPACE. “She has empowered us to understand and promote Uganda’s national values while encouraging young people to report corruption,” Ampumuza said.
Dr. Okiria also called for more Integrity Days to reach wider audiences. She stressed that teaching ethics and values must start early to create a society that upholds honesty and good governance.
“We need to build a generation that sees integrity not just as a virtue but as a way of life,” she noted.
The Deputy IGG reaffirmed her commitment to working with youth and educational institutions to embed integrity into Uganda’s governance culture.
