IGG Demands Blacklisting of Underperforming Contractors

The Inspectorate of Government (IGG) has issued a strong call to blacklist contractors who repeatedly fail to complete government projects within the stipulated timelines. This move comes after inspections conducted under the Anti-Corruption Caravan in the Bunyoro sub-region revealed numerous stalled or significantly delayed government-funded projects.

Christine Lamwaka, Manager for Advocacy and Capacity Building at the IGG, stated during the inspections that contractors with a history of poor performance should no longer be awarded public contracts. “If a contractor has repeatedly failed to deliver within the agreed-upon timelines, there is no justification for awarding them more contracts,” she noted, emphasizing that such contractors should be blacklisted until they prove their capability to execute public works.

These prolonged delays not only frustrate communities but also undermine confidence in government institutions. Lamwaka highlighted that citizens often wait years for projects intended to improve their lives, leading to frustration and sometimes prompting appeals directly to the President.

Among the problematic projects are Kihungya Health Centre, Kihungya Seed Secondary School, and Kijunjubwa Seed Secondary School in Masindi District. These projects, crucial for healthcare and education, have faced significant setbacks. The IGG pointed out that stalled projects deprive communities of vital services, divert public resources, and raise questions about project oversight and accountability.

In a specific case, the IGG has directed Imperio Construction Company to complete the remaining works at Kijunjubwa Seed Secondary School within two weeks, before investigations into the delays commence. The school, launched in 2021 and scheduled for completion within 18 months, remains unfinished five years later.

The Anti-Corruption Caravan also documented other issues in the region, including alleged extortion in health facilities, unresolved land disputes, and bribery involving police. Concerns were also raised about the quality of construction materials used on some projects, suggesting possible compromises in standards.

The IGG’s initiative aims to promote accountability and expose corruption affecting grassroots service delivery, urging for strengthened anti-corruption efforts and increased accessibility of reporting channels across the country. The success of these efforts, the IGG suggests, relies on public participation and timely feedback on reported cases.

Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/igg-calls-for-blacklisting-of-non-performing-contractors-5512342