Uganda conducts AML/CFT/CPF Self- Assessment ahead of 2028 Mutual Evaluation
Uganda’s experts in the fight against financial crimes have launched a process of conducting a year-long Anti-Money Laundering/Countering Financing of Terrorism and Combating Proliferation Financing (AML/CFT/CPF) self-assessment/evaluation for the country.
In preparation for this critical exercise, the Uganda National AML/CFT/CPF Taskforce, resolved in July this year that an AML/CFT/CPF self-assessment be undertaken using the FATF Methodology for Mutual Evaluations.
At the two-day inaugural meeting and training for Ugandan assessors, Mr. Wandera stressed that self-evaluation will provide an in-depth analysis of the effectiveness of Uganda’s AML/CFT/CPF regime including an in-depth description and analysis of the country’s system for preventing criminal abuse of the financial system. The last ME conducted in 2016 scored effectiveness as low across all the 11 immediate outcomes.
He asserted that the process of Self Evaluation will help to enhance the capacity of Ugandan-trained FATF/ESAAMLG assessors by sharpening their skills in mutual evaluation. Uganda currently has a total of 50 trained assessors including 45 recently trained assessors. “The self-assessment will enhance the ability of Uganda to identify the current strength of its AML/CFT/CPF regime, identify weaknesses and allow Government authorities an opportunity to address all identified deficiencies ahead of the next Mutual Evaluation,” said the ED.
The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC)Uganda Head of Office, Ms. Sharon Lesa Nyambe, welcomed the initiative stating that it is a vital milestone in Uganda’s journey to combat financial crime. This year-long assessment scheduled from October 2024 to October 2025 will strengthen Uganda’s financial safeguards and enhance compliance with international standards, particularly the 40 Recommendations of the FATF, said Ms Nyambe
The Head of Office said that in recognition of the importance of supporting Uganda in its fight against financial crimes, UNODC’s Global Programme against Money-Laundering, Proceeds of Crime, and the Financing of Terrorism offers technical assistance, capacity-building, and training to strengthen national financial institutions.
She said that in Uganda, the UNODC’s five-year programme, “Strengthening Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice,” plays an integral role in these efforts by promoting effective, humane, and accountable criminal justice systems in line with UN standards.
Aligned with FATF’s 40 Recommendations, this programme assists countries in improving AML/CFT regimes. The partnership between UNODC and FATF strengthens Uganda’s capacity to meet global AML/CFT standards, thereby bolstering its credibility in the international financial arena and enhancing its ability to attract foreign investment.
Ms. Nyambe remarked that Uganda’s removal from the FATF grey list stands as a testament to the country’s commitment to international standards and the resilience of its institutions. This achievement highlights Uganda’s dedication to strengthening its financial safeguards and reinforces its position as a trusted global partner.
Since the last mutual evaluation, Uganda has made significant strides, and today’s self-assessment provides a valuable opportunity to reflect on progress, evaluate current measures, and address any remaining areas for improvement.
This proactive approach not only ensures compliance but also enhances Uganda’s capacity to counter financial crimes effectively, laying a strong foundation as the nation prepares for the 2028 Mutual Evaluation, she observed.
She counselled that while Uganda today marks a significant milestone, AML/CFT compliance is an ongoing journey. The global landscape of financial crime is ever-evolving, requiring continuous adaptation. Through regular self-assessments, Uganda ensures its systems remain effective against emerging threats, building long-term resilience for economic and national security.
She reaffirmed UNODC’s commitment to supporting Uganda’s mission to combat financial crimes and uphold the rule of law.
Two AML/CFT/CPF experts from the Eastern and Southern Africa Anti Money Laundering Group (ESAAMLG),Mr. Joseph Jagada and Mr. Simon Ogwal Kajura are facilitating the training.
Other experts have been drawn from the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development, Bank of Uganda, Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, Ministries of Internal Affairs; Lands Housing and Urban Development; Energy and Mineral Development; IGG, URA, IRA, UWA, ODPP, Law Council, UPF and the FIA which is the secretariat.