From Public Servant To Millionaire: Mugambe’s Rise Raises Questions

Kampala, Uganda – Newsday: A stunning revelation has rocked the Ministry of Finance, Planning, and Economic Development (MOFPED), as the vast and lucrative empire of Director of Budget, Kenneth Mugambe, has come to light, sparking widespread astonishment and raising troubling questions about a potential cartel of illicit beneficiaries of government funds operating within the ministry’s ranks.

The shocking discovery has set off alarm bells, hinting at a possible web of corruption and deceit that has left many wondering how such a vast fortune was amassed.

From humble beginnings as a dedicated civil servant, Kenneth Mugambe has risen to become a prominent property tycoon, amassing an impressive portfolio of luxurious assets across East Africa. His extensive property empire spans from upscale apartments in Kenya to prime real estate in Uganda’s most exclusive neighborhoods, including Ntinda, Kololo, Mutungo, Lubowa, and other affluent areas, solidifying his reputation as one of the country’s most successful and influential property moguls.

Kenneth Mugambe, the renowned budget director, calls Lubowa home, where he resides in a palatial mansion valued at a staggering Shs 3 billion. This opulent edifice, constructed by the esteemed Roko Construction Company, was reportedly handed over to Mugambe after a substantial upfront payment, showcasing his extravagant taste and solidifying his reputation as a man of considerable means.

Kenneth Mugambe boasts an impressive 14-year career trajectory, marked by extensive expertise in strategic planning, public financial management, budgeting, macroeconomic policy, and public administration. His wealth of experience has equipped him with a deep understanding of the intricacies of public finance, policy development, and implementation, making him a valuable asset in the realm of economic management and public service.

Kenneth Mugambe serves on the board of the National Information Technology Authority (NITA), leveraging his expertise to shape the country’s technological landscape. Previously, he held the position of Principal Economist in the Ministry of Economic Development and Planning (MOeFP), where he led the Budget Execution and Evaluation Section of the Budget Policy and Evaluation Department. In this role, he oversaw the effective implementation and evaluation of national budgets, providing critical insights to inform policy decisions and drive economic growth.

Kenneth Mugambe holds the position of Assistant Commissioner in the Economic Development Policy and Research Department, where he played a pivotal role in shaping Uganda’s economic trajectory.

Notably, he was a key architect of the landmark Poverty Eradication Action Plan (PEAP) 2004, leading a team of experts to develop a comprehensive strategy aimed at alleviating poverty and promoting sustainable economic growth. His contributions to this groundbreaking initiative have had a lasting impact on Uganda’s development landscape, demonstrating his expertise in economic policy and his commitment to sustainable development.”

On June 8, President Museveni unveiled a new cabinet lineup, notable for its increased gender diversity, with women appointed to key positions. The President subsequently addressed Parliament, explaining that the reshuffle aimed to enhance the country’s governance structure. Furthermore, changes to the permanent secretary posts were announced, with some individuals relieved of their duties in the “public interest”, as part of the ongoing efforts to optimize the government’s performance and efficiency.

In a move designed to enhance the efficient allocation of public resources, President Museveni appointed Mr. Ramadan Goobi as the new Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Finance, replacing Keith Muhakanizi. This strategic move aims to optimize government expenditures, aligning with the President’s vision to strengthen fiscal management and promote economic growth.

As the Commissioner of Budget Policy and Evaluation Department at the Ministry of Finance, Planning, and Economic Development, Kenneth Mugambe plays a vital role in shaping the country’s economic trajectory.

He spearheads the development of the national Medium-Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF), a critical tool that guides the allocation of resources and sets priorities for national spending. Under his leadership, the MTEF ensures a rational and effective distribution of resources, balancing short-term needs with long-term goals, and driving sustainable economic growth and development.

However, concerns have been raised regarding potential conflicts of interest and abuse of power, with allegations suggesting that Mr. Mugambe may have utilized his position to accumulate personal wealth.

Specifically, it is claimed that he has collaborated with influential individuals to secure government loans, which are then deposited into government accounts, earning interest while taxpayers continue to bear the burden of loan repayment. These allegations warrant investigation to ensure transparency and accountability in the management of public funds.