Former Uganda National Roads Authority (UNRA) Executive Director, Allen Kagina, has called on leaders to practice integrity not just in words but in their actions. She made the remarks on Friday, March 7, during the 3rd Sarah Nyendwoha Ntiro Memorial Lecture at Makerere University’s School of Public Health Auditorium.
The lecture, held under the theme “Pioneering Change and Transforming Institutions,” honored Ntiro’s legacy as a trailblazer in education and gender equality.
In her keynote address, Kagina reflected on her leadership journey at UNRA and the Uganda Revenue Authority (URA), emphasizing that institutional transformation requires ethical leadership, teamwork, and innovation.
“Leadership must be anchored in integrity because ethical leadership fosters a culture of accountability and transparency,” she said. “As a leader, you must create an environment where people feel confident that decisions are made in the best interest of the institution and those it serves.”
She recalled the reforms she led at UNRA, where inefficiency, corruption, and project delays had damaged the institution’s credibility. She noted that difficult decisions, including the removal of corrupt and underperforming staff, were necessary to rebuild trust.
“No leader can succeed alone. Institutional transformation depends on the collective efforts of individuals committed to the same purpose,” she added.
Drawing from her experience at URA, Kagina explained that restructuring and enforcing transparency had restored public trust in the tax body.
“We introduced technology to reduce human interference in tax collection and fostered a culture of accountability and cooperation,” she said. “These reforms were challenging, but they ultimately set a new standard for public institutions in Uganda.”
Kagina also highlighted the resilience of Sarah Ntiro, who faced systemic gender discrimination but remained steadfast in her mission to advance education and equality.
“Her ability to persevere, even when faced with seemingly insurmountable barriers, reminds us that change often requires enduring hardship with unwavering determination,” she said.
The Chairperson of Makerere University Council, Mrs. Lorna Magara, praised Kagina’s insights and emphasized the importance of transformative leadership.
“Mrs. Kagina powerfully articulated that transformative leadership is not about being the first woman in the room but ensuring you are not the last,” Magara said. “When women lead with courage and vision, we do not just change organizations—we redefine the very essence of leadership.”
Prof. Mukadasi Buyinza, who represented Vice Chancellor Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, underscored the importance of consistent, principled action in achieving meaningful change.
“Progress is a collective endeavor,” he said. “It requires individuals willing to challenge systemic barriers, sacrifice personal comfort, and create pathways for those who follow.”
The event also featured a panel discussion moderated by Prof. Sarah Ssali, Dean of the School of Women and Gender Studies, who emphasized the need for both behavioral and structural transformation in addressing social challenges.
Dr. Ruth Nsibirano, Head of the Gender Studies Department, called for inclusive and empowering education practices, noting that Ntiro’s legacy continues to inspire the fight for gender equality and social inclusion.
Sarah Ntiro’s Legacy
Born in 1926 in Bunyoro, Sarah Ntiro became the first East African woman to graduate from the University of Oxford in 1951. She faced gender discrimination upon her return to Uganda, including being paid less than her male counterparts. In protest, she worked without pay, igniting a national debate on gender equality.
Her advocacy for girls’ education and women’s leadership laid the foundation for a more inclusive education system in Uganda and across East Africa. Her legacy continues to inspire generations to challenge societal norms and drive institutional transformation.
Kagina Urges Leaders to Uphold Integrity in Action added by Times Reporter on
View all posts by Times Reporter →
