Fraud is silently eroding economies and public trust worldwide, but one organization is boldly stepping up to fight back. As the 2025 International Fraud Awareness Week kicks off, the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners (ACFE) Uganda Chapter is demanding tougher anti-fraud measures—and they’re not holding back. From November 17 to 21, Uganda joins a global movement to expose fraud, champion integrity, and fortify defenses against economic crime. But here’s where it gets controversial: can we truly eradicate fraud without addressing the systemic loopholes that enable it? Let’s dive in.
At the launch event, ACFE Uganda Chapter President Mr. George Turyamureba Mugabi delivered a powerful message: “Fraud isn’t just a financial issue—it’s a threat to our collective future. This week reminds us that combating it requires every one of us to take a stand.” His words underscore the organization’s unwavering commitment to fostering transparency and accountability across public and private sectors. But this is the part most people miss: fraud isn’t just about stolen money; it’s about shattered trust, derailed careers, and weakened institutions. How can we rebuild what’s been lost?
Founded in 1988 in the United States, the ACFE stands as the world’s largest anti-fraud organization, boasting over 90,000 members globally. Through research, certification, and training, it wages war against white-collar crime. The Uganda Chapter, established in 2008, is a registered affiliate with over 150 Certified Fraud Examiners. Its membership includes heavyweights like the Bank of Uganda, Inspectorate of Government, and major private-sector players such as banks and telecoms. But here’s the twist: despite these efforts, fraud continues to evolve. Are we keeping pace with the criminals?
The local chapter doesn’t just talk the talk—it walks the walk. Through specialized training, workshops, webinars, and awareness campaigns, it equips professionals with tools to combat fraud, manage risks, and uphold ethical standards. Yet, as technology advances, so do the tactics of fraudsters. Deepfakes, insider threats, and virtual scams are no longer sci-fi concepts—they’re real dangers. And this is where the 2025 Fraud Awareness Week takes a bold stance.
Throughout the week, ACFE Uganda will host public awareness drives, stakeholder meetings, and expert panels dissecting emerging fraud trends. These initiatives aim to arm organizations and citizens with practical strategies to detect, prevent, and respond to fraud. The highlight? The 3rd Regional Fraud Conference on November 20–21 at Speke Resort Munyonyo, themed “Safeguarding Integrity in the Virtual World – Responding to Deepfakes and Insider Threat-Driven Fraud.” But here’s the question: as we navigate this virtual battleground, are we prepared for the ethical dilemmas that come with it?
The conference will gather regional and international experts, anti-corruption advocates, legal professionals, and law enforcement agencies. Discussions will spotlight digital threats, real-world case studies, and cutting-edge preventive tools. Yet, amidst these solutions, a provocative thought emerges: could our reliance on technology be creating new vulnerabilities? We invite you to join the conversation—agree, disagree, or share your own experiences. Because in the fight against fraud, every voice matters. What’s your take?