Introducing Our Leadership: A Strong Board to Drive Change
On December 20, 2024, we proudly announced the inauguration of our fourth Board of Directors, tasked with steering the FIA toward achieving greater operational and strategic goals. The board comprises distinguished professionals:
- Mr. Alinaffe Kalule (Chairperson): A seasoned leader providing strategic oversight.
- Mr. Titus Mulindwa: Renowned for his legal acumen in regulatory frameworks.
- Maj. (Retired) Odo Manyire: Bringing vast security expertise.
- Mr. Charles Elem Ogwal: Offering in-depth financial and compliance knowledge.
- Mrs. Rita Mitala Balaka: An expert in corporate governance and policy development.
- Mr. Samuel Were Wandera: A visionary championing financial inclusion and intelligence.
This dynamic team is committed to enhancing our mandate to fight financial crimes, ensuring Uganda’s compliance with international standards, and promoting economic stability.
Global Cooperation: Strengthening Transnational Partnerships
International collaboration is vital to our AML/CFT efforts. On December 9, 2024, FIA held a pivotal meeting with Judge Ahmed Said Khalil, Chairman of Egypt's Money Laundering and Terrorist Financing Combating Unit (EMLCU). This meeting highlighted shared strategies for combating transnational financial crimes, knowledge exchange, and bolstering cross-border coordination.
Such partnerships enable us to stay ahead of evolving financial threats and align with global best practices in financial intelligence.
Fighting Corruption: Linking AML to Transparency
On December 6, 2024, FIA reinforced its commitment to fighting corruption, recognizing it as a significant enabler of money laundering. By integrating stronger AML mechanisms, we are tackling corruption not just as a national issue but as a global challenge with far-reaching consequences.
Our efforts include proactive steps to identify and disrupt corrupt networks by freezing illicit assets, confiscating proceeds of crime, and ensuring compliance with reporting requirements among accountable persons.
Public Awareness and Action: Educating and Engaging Stakeholders
To commemorate International Anti-Corruption Day on December 9, FIA launched a robust awareness campaign. On December 4 and 5, we engaged the media to:
- Highlight the risks of corruption to Uganda’s financial systems.
- Educate the public on the role of AML measures in preventing financial crime.
- Showcase our success in freezing assets and sanctioning non-compliant institutions.
By enhancing public awareness, we empower citizens and organizations to actively build a transparent financial ecosystem.
Our Ongoing Commitment: Safeguarding Uganda’s Financial Future
The FIA remains committed to:
- Strengthening Leadership: Guided by a capable and visionary board.
- Enhancing International Ties: Leveraging partnerships with global counterparts like the EMLCU.
- Promoting Compliance: Advocating for robust AML/CFT measures and enforcing regulations among accountable persons.
- Engaging the Public: Raising awareness and promoting transparency about our activities and successes.
Looking Ahead
As we enter 2025, FIA is honoured to host the 49th Task Force of Senior Officials Meeting of ESAAMLG, scheduled for March 28 to April 4, 2025, in Kampala. This event will solidify Uganda’s position as a regional leader in the fight against financial crime, offering a platform to discuss advancements in AML/CFT practices.
Follow us on X (@ThefiaU) to stay informed about our initiatives and progress as we continue to protect Uganda’s financial systems against the threats of money laundering and terrorism financing. We can build a secure, transparent, and resilient financial future for Ugandans.