Young people have been urged to take a leading role in the fight against corruption by responsibly using digital platforms to promote accountability, raise public awareness and expose wrongdoing.
The call was made on Sunday evening by D/SSP Fred Lumala, head of investigations at the State House Anti-Corruption Unit (SH-ACU), while representing Brig Gen Henry Isoke, head of the unit, during a campfire session organised by students of the Integrity Ambassadors Club at Bishop Stuart University.
The engagement was held under the theme “Promoting Effective Participation of the Youth in the War Against Corruption.”
Lumala said corruption often begins with actions that society tends to overlook, including paying for services, falsifying documents, abusing influence, cheating in examinations and remaining silent when wrongdoing occurs.
He noted that corruption persists partly because dishonesty has become normalised in everyday life.
“Technology and social media provide powerful opportunities for youth involvement in accountability efforts. Young people must use digital platforms responsibly to raise awareness, promote civic education, advocate for transparency, and expose wrongdoing,” he said.
Lumala also cited Article 17(1)(i) of the Constitution, which places a duty on every citizen to combat corruption and prevent the misuse of public property.
He said young people, therefore, must become active participants in promoting accountability within schools, communities and workplaces.
He further noted that youth are among the most affected by corruption due to its impact on employment, public services and institutional performance, warning that they cannot remain passive observers.
The event also featured remarks from Mary Mutesi, a strategic communications and development officer at the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs, who called for stronger youth inclusion in anti-corruption efforts.
She proposed youth-led anti-corruption structures at district level, increased civic education campaigns, and stronger coordination among accountability institutions.
Lumala thanked the university leadership for organising the engagement and encouraged students to continue serving as ambassadors of integrity in their communities.
