GOOD GOVERNANCE BOOST! ASAC Commends UBOS on Audit and Accountability Systems

By Evans Najuna

KAMPALA: The Accountability Sector Audit Committee (ASAC) has engaged the Uganda Bureau of Statistics (UBOS) over audit oversight, accountability and institutional performance, calling for stronger internal controls and timely implementation of audit recommendations to strengthen the agency’s governance and efficiency.

The committee, which operates under the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development (MoFPED), on Tuesday, engaged UBOS management in a high-level meeting aimed at strengthening governance, audit oversight and institutional performance.

The meeting was chaired by UBOS Executive Director, Dr. Chris N. Mukiza, and brought together the ASAC delegation and senior UBOS officials to review the Bureau’s accountability systems and areas requiring urgent attention.

The discussions focused on the implementation of audit recommendations, statutory instruments governing UBOS and its committees, staff welfare, the effectiveness of the Internal Audit Directorate and areas where MoFPED could further support the statistical body.

ASAC, led by its Chairperson, Justice Emeritus Ralph W. Ochan, commended UBOS for producing high-quality audit reports but stressed the need for timely submission to allow effective oversight, follow-up and implementation.

The committee’s message was clear: audit recommendations must not gather dust.

Dr. Mukiza underscored the importance of the Internal Audit Directorate in strengthening UBOS’ internal control environment and ensuring that the Bureau’s systems and processes operate effectively and efficiently.

He revealed that the Internal Audit Directorate is adequately resourced and equipped with tools, including audit management software, to execute its mandate.

Mukiza further reaffirmed the commitment of UBOS management and the Board to continuously strengthen internal audit systems, mechanisms and staff capacity.

The meeting also tackled delays affecting the timely submission of quarterly audit reports, with management and ASAC agreeing on measures to close the identified gaps and improve compliance with reporting deadlines.

The two sides further agreed to prioritise critical audit recommendations for short-term implementation, while maintaining close collaboration between UBOS and the Accountability Sector.

The move is expected to strengthen governance, accountability and institutional performance at the Bureau.

Following the meeting, the ASAC delegation toured the National Statistical Resource Centre, where members were briefed on its role in facilitating access to statistical information and promoting the use of official statistics.

The committee praised the Centre for its contribution to making official statistics more accessible and supporting their utilisation in response to stakeholders’ data needs.

The engagement comes as UBOS continues to strengthen its systems and institutional structures to ensure that Uganda’s official statistics are produced, managed and disseminated under robust accountability and governance standards.