Public Service Excellence: Kakande Calls for Integrity, Mentorship, and Proactive Leadership

The Secretary in the Office of the President, Hajji Yunus Kakande, has called upon Administrative Officers across government to strategically and professionally reposition themselves in order to remain relevant in the rapidly evolving landscape of public service.

Speaking yesterday at Mbale Resort Hotel while officially closing the 5th Administrative Officers’ Forum, Hajji Kakande underscored the importance of lifelong learning, commitment to duty, and proactive leadership in addressing emerging governance challenges.

“The landscape of public service is shifting rapidly. You must stay ahead through lifelong learning, commitment to duty, and a proactive approach to emerging challenges. I implore you to build on what you have learned during this retreat and return to your stations with fresh minds, informed and ready to lead,” he said.

The four-day forum, held under the theme “Fostering Public Confidence through Transparent and Accountable Governance,” attracted Under Secretaries, Principal Assistant Secretaries, Senior Assistant Secretaries, and Assistant Secretaries from central government institutions.

Hajji Kakande emphasized the role of mentorship in strengthening the administrative cadre, urging senior officers to guide their juniors towards achieving shared goals.

“No officer should be left behind. Let this retreat mark the beginning of renewed professional networks, peer learning, and shared accountability across Ministries, Departments, and Agencies,” he advised.

As Uganda prepares to roll out the National Development Plan IV (NDP IV), he encouraged administrative officers to take a keen interest in its implementation, working closely with planners and other technical cadres.

“Knowledge is the foundation for leadership and it is only through deep engagement and awareness that you will command the respect and credibility you seek within government structures,” he remarked.

Highlighting the critical role of administrators in the machinery of government, Hajji Kakande said their relevance and strength lies in their ability to understand and coordinate across all functions of government.

“As administrators, you are expected to possess a comprehensive grasp of key government processes. In essence, you must be well-versed with the entire spectrum of government operations. It is this broad and deep understanding that empowers you to lead effectively, support decision-making, and uphold the standards of excellence expected within the public service,” he noted.

He further thanked the Head of Public Service and Secretary to Cabinet, Ms. Lucy Nakyobe, for her unwavering commitment to strengthening the administrative cadre, noting that her presence and insights provided invaluable guidance during the forum.

Reaffirming the Office of the President’s dedication to supporting administrators, Hajji Kakande assured participants that he is committed to leaving behind a stronger, more respected cadre when he eventually exits active service.

“I implore each of you to carry forward the lessons learned during this Forum into your daily work. Let your professionalism, your integrity, and your performance set the tone in every office you serve. Uphold the dignity and prestige of this cadre, and above all, serve with honour,” said Kakande, who has served in public service for over 40 years.

He also reminded officers that President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, through the NRM government, has played a pivotal role in empowering administrators by enhancing their remuneration. He urged them to reciprocate this support by mobilising colleagues and families to re-elect President Museveni in 2026 to consolidate the gains achieved.

Dr. Freddie Emmanuel Mugunga, Chairperson of the Public Administrators Association of Uganda, commended the Office of the President for organizing the forum, describing it as instrumental in enhancing the capacity of administrators.

“We also thank the accounting officers of the respective ministries for facilitating the participants to take part in the forum,” Dr. Mugunga said.

Earlier in the retreat, Ambassador David Etuket delivered a presentation on diplomacy and state protocol, stressing the centrality of national security in both domestic and international relations.

“While dealing with diplomacy and state protocol, both domestic and diplomatic, national security is key and must be emphasized to protect the nation’s sovereignty and fundamental values,” he stated.

He added that while foreign policy remains an essential tool for advancing national interests, it also adapts to evolving secondary interests over time.

The Administrative Officers’ Forum has become a vital platform for enhancing professional networks, sharing best practices, and building capacity among public administrators. This year’s retreat reaffirmed the importance of transparency, accountability, and proactive leadership in restoring and maintaining public confidence in government.

As the officers return to their respective stations, Hajji Kakande’s message of integrity, mentorship, and professional excellence sets the tone for a strengthened administrative cadre that is central to Uganda’s journey towards effective governance and national development.