By Mulengera Reporters
The Executive Director (ED) of the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC), Hon. Nyombi Thembo, has called on staff and managers within the Commission to embrace internal audits as a necessary tool for growth, accountability, and lasting institutional change.
Speaking during a two-day Internal Audit Awareness Breakfast Meeting at the UCC Head Office in Bugolobi, Nyombi said that internal audit should not be feared or resisted, but rather welcomed as a strategic partner in strengthening governance systems.
“At UCC, we regard internal audit as a fundamental pillar in our journey towards accountability and good governance. Instead of fearing feedback, let’s welcome it. Rather than pushing back against change, let’s take initiative to make it happen.”
His remarks come during UCC’s observance of Internal Audit Awareness Month, a global initiative aimed at improving understanding of the audit function and correcting common misconceptions around it.
The UCC event also featured a blood donation drive, held over two days in partnership with the Mengo Rotary Blood Bank. The activity was part of the Commission’s commitment to public health and community engagement, even as it focused internally on strengthening its systems and culture.
Alice Nyangoma, Director for Internal Audit and Risk at UCC explained that internal auditing goes far beyond pointing out mistakes. “The purpose of auditors is not solely to identify faults but to add value to the organisation,” she said, adding that UCC her office works with departments to improve systems, procedures and performance, aimed at helping UCC become more effective and efficient.
Nyangoma added that one of the key goals of the awareness campaign is to challenge the fear and suspicion that often surrounds audit processes, especially in public institutions.
Fred Otunnu, Director of Corporate Affairs at the Commission also highlighted the long-term benefits of a strong internal audit function. He said the role of audit is not just limited to compliance but also includes promoting innovation, ethical governance, and risk management (all essential ingredients for institutional resilience).
“Internal audit plays a critical role in ensuring business continuity and safeguarding the Commission’s reputation,” Otunnu said.
At the heart of the message from UCC leadership was a push for culture change, a shift in how internal reviews are perceived and acted upon.
UCC hopes that by normalising audits and positioning them as a regular part of institutional growth, staff will begin to see them as opportunities to learn and lead, rather than as punitive checks.
