The Executive Secretary of the Inter-Governmental Authority on Development (IGAD) Eng. Mahboub Maalim has called for fast investigations into the refugee scam that came to light last month.
Mahboub said if Uganda is to continue receiving donor funds for refugees, there’s need to show transparency in how resources are managed.
“It is a cardinal principal for there to be transparency not only of resources, but money too. Transparency in all our systems,” Mahboub said.
The financial scam is said to have led some donors threatening to withdraw funding from Uganda’s refugee pocket. Mahboub says IGAD is determined to contribute to having the culprits face the law because the image of member states will not be tarnished in such a manner.
“I have no doubt and can tell you, if there is proof that there’s something going on, then we will also bring that to the attention of our countries,” Mahboub added.
Adding on to his voice was the United Nations High Commission for Refugees special representative Mohammed Affey.
During a dialogue on the role of non-traditional donors and regional organizations in humanitarian financing and capacities, Mohammed argued that there’s need for transparency in the matters of refugees in Uganda.
“You know allegations need to be proven, the facts need to be established, those responsible need to be brought to book, we do not condone corruption,” Affey noted.
The two and other dignitaries from other countries across the continent are attending the first Riyadh International Humanitarian Forum in Saudi Arabia meant to draw combined experience of organizations and countries to address challenges in humanitarian planning and delivery.
