Kampala, Uganda—March 2025: Authorities in Uganda are facing fresh calls to investigate the theft of crucial servers and equipment belonging to Face Technologies, the former service provider for driver’s licenses in Uganda.
The stolen equipment was reportedly handed over to the government and stored at the Uganda Railways Corporation (URC) stores but was later illegally removed and allegedly sold by Andrew Muhangi, a Senior Licensing Officer at the Ministry of Works and Transport.
Muhangi, who is widely known within the Ministry as “Nsomba Byuma,” allegedly sold the servers to finance the purchase of a new vehicle. According to sources within URC, he stealthily removed the equipment without proper clearance. His activities came under suspicion when he attempted to take a new generator from URC stores, prompting security officers to demand a movement order and clearance letter, which he failed to produce.
Eyewitnesses say that when security personnel blocked his attempt to take the generator, Muhangi resorted to threats, warning them that he would have them fired if they did not let him proceed. When they stood their ground, he reportedly drove off in anger, hurling insults at them.
Why Has There Been No Investigation?
Despite the gravity of the allegations, there has been no visible action from investigative bodies such as the Criminal Investigations Directorate (CID), the Inspectorate of Government (IGG), the Auditor General, or the State House Anti-Corruption Unit (SHACU). The lack of official action has raised concerns about whether certain individuals are shielding Muhangi from accountability.
The Rise of “Nsomba Byuma”: A Man of Controversy
Muhangi Andrew has long been a controversial figure within the Ministry of Works and Transport. He is known for his extravagant lifestyle and boasts of being a self-made millionaire, despite colleagues recalling his humble beginnings. Sources at the Ministry joke that when he first joined, he only had a single pair of trousers with patches and worn-out slippers (Mikaranda).
Recently, Amanyire, a former close associate of Muhangi, has been publicly complaining about him at both the Ministry and URC. Amanyire accused Muhangi of betrayal, stating that after involving him in a lucrative deal, Muhangi took all the proceeds and began avoiding him. The rift between the two has resulted in a bitter fallout, with both parties now accusing each other of corruption and dishonesty.
Allegations of Corruption and Influence Peddling
Investigations have uncovered that Muhangi and Amanyire were heard boasting in the Ministry corridors that they were more powerful than the Ministers and could influence the transfers of key officials, including Permanent Secretaries (PSs). The duo allegedly planned to manipulate leadership changes in the ministry to ensure they maintained control over lucrative deals.
Additionally, sources indicate that Muhangi was recorded at the Latitude Hotel in Makindye attempting to solicit a bribe from Russian investors involved in the digital license plate project. The recordings were submitted to State House, leading to his dismissal from the project. While he later claimed that he had resigned voluntarily, official documents show that he was sacked for misconduct and incompetence.
Boasts of Influence and a Lavish Lifestyle Crumble
Muhangi had long presented himself as a key power broker, frequently bragging about his connections to the First Family and his ability to manipulate high-level government appointments. However, his fortunes took a dramatic turn when he was evicted from an upscale apartment belonging to a relative of the First Family for failing to pay rent amounting to USD 3,000 per month.
In his previous post in Motor Vehicle Registration, Muhangi was accused of sexual misconduct, including coercing young female employees and threatening to fire them if they did not comply with his demands. One of his victims, reportedly the daughter of a senior government official, has recently come forward, and sources suggest that legal action is being considered against him.
Fake Academic Credentials?
Another layer of controversy surrounds Muhangi’s claimed Harvard education. While he often boasts of being a Harvard graduate, documents reviewed by this publication indicate that he only obtained a certificate of attendance, which is available to anyone who participates in short training sessions.
The War Against Dr. Benon Kajuna
Before Dr. Benon Kajuna was appointed Managing Director of Uganda Railways Corporation (URC), Muhangi allegedly fought fiercely to block his appointment, bragging that he had bribed Board members to keep Kajuna out. However, after Kajuna’s appointment, Muhangi attempted to rebuild ties by reaching out to influential people who knew Kajuna, pleading for forgiveness.
At one point, Muhangi falsely accused Kajuna of demanding a UGX 1 billion bribe, a claim Kajuna firmly denied before senior government officials. When his accusations failed to gain traction, Muhangi allegedly began issuing threats, vowing to bring Kajuna down.
However, his influence appears to be diminishing. Following his reassignment to the Licensing Department, he was later dismissed for incompetence and chronic absenteeism. Staff at the department reportedly celebrated his departure, with even URA officials expressing relief at his exit.
What Next for the Allegations?
As the scandals surrounding Muhangi Andrew continue to unfold, questions remain about why authorities have not taken action against him. With mounting evidence of theft, corruption, bribery, and sexual misconduct, pressure is growing for investigative agencies to step in and hold him accountable.
This publication will continue to follow the unfolding story, including revelations about Muhangi’s failed attempt to defraud Russian investors and the recordings that led to his downfall.
Only time will tell how deep this scandal runs.