Allegations of unexplained wealth have emerged against Mrs. Dorcas Wagima Okalany, the Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Lands, Housing and Urban Development, sparking debate about accountability and lifestyles of public servants.
Reports circulating online suggest that the official has constructed a palatial residence in Kiwologoma, Kira Municipality, said to sit on more than three acres and features over 12 bedrooms, drawing comparisons to State House. The other person she can join in this league is Edwin Karugire, the son-in-law of the president.
Okalany’s home, which sits on about three acres, is located in Kiwologoma in Kira Municipality.
The same official is also alleged to own multiple properties across Uganda, including Marple Cottages valued in billions of shillings on the outskirts of Mbale City, apartments in Kampala’s suburbs of Bukoto, Nakawa, Kiwatule, and Najjera, as well as rental units in upscale areas.
These claims come at a time when the official is reportedly involved in disputes within the Ministry. Critics say her lifestyle raises questions about wealth declarations and accountability in the public service.
The developments have reignited public conversations on corruption, wealth accumulation, and transparency in government institutions.
Under the Leadership Code Act, senior public servants are required to declare their assets and liabilities to the Inspectorate of Government (IGG). However, the public rarely sees these declarations, and questions about lifestyle audits remain a recurring theme in Uganda’s fight against corruption.
Governance analysts note that while senior officials are entitled to personal wealth, unexplained accumulation erodes public trust. “What the public wants is transparency,” said one governance researcher. “When senior officials live far beyond what is expected of their salaries, it creates suspicion and damages the credibility of institutions.”
