Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) is once again under the microscope after one of its staff members, Dr. Rachael Mbabazi, was accused of swindling Shs47 million from local investor and politician, Hajji Isaac Mulindwa in a shady deal involving the delivery of wild animals to his private Ranch in Gombe.
The mess was brought to light this afternoon when Col. Edith Nakalema, the head of the State House Investors Protection Unit (SHIPU), personally stepped in to handle the case after Hajji Mulindwa filed a formal complaint.
Turns out, Hajji Mulindwa had paid Dr. Mbabazi the cash directly—via mobile money and to her personal bank account—for the delivery of 100 wild animals to his 640-acre ranch in Busikiri, Gombe Sub County. But only 31 animals ever showed up.
“It was not UWA as an institution that failed Hajji, but an individual officer who abused her office,” Nakalema clarified.
Col. Nakalema did not mince words during the briefing, stressing that SHIPU’s job is to shield legit investors from fraud, delays, and corruption.
“Our duty is to ensure that no investor who has fulfilled legal requirements is delayed or extorted. We are coordinating with Uganda Wildlife Authority to ensure full delivery and accountability,” she stated.
She warned all Ugandans and investors to avoid informal deals with individuals, especially when dealing with government institutions.
“Always engage with the heads of institutions or designated officials, and never pay through personal accounts.”
On behalf of UWA, Mr. John Makombo, Director of Biodiversity Management, apologized publicly for the scandal:
“We deeply regret the misconduct by Dr. Mbabazi. She acted alone and against UWA policies. Disciplinary action has commenced, and we will deliver the remaining animals.”
He emphasized that UWA operates a strictly cashless system, and such private dealings are never allowed under their code of conduct.
Hajji Mulindwa, who’s now partially refunded Shs22 million by Dr. Mbabazi’s legal team, thanked Col. Nakalema for acting swiftly.
“I appreciate the professional and timely response by Col. Nakalema. She handled my matter with transparency and care.”
The balance of the money is expected to be refunded within two weeks.
Meanwhile, Col. Nakalema has referred the case to the Anti-Corruption Unit for further legal scrutiny and praised UWA’s Executive Director Dr. James Musinguzi for fully cooperating.
“SHIPU remains committed to protecting investors, promoting ethical public service, and ensuring that wrong elements do not frustrate investment in Uganda,” she concluded.
So, dear investors: if it’s wild animals you want—go official or risk being bitten, not by the animals, but by fraud.
