In a world where public servants are often associated with bureaucratic inefficiency, Dr. Pius Bigirimana stands as a symbol of transformational leadership. He has not only modernized Uganda’s public administration but has also injected a private sector mindset into the heart of government operations. Serving as the Permanent Secretary and Secretary to the Judiciary since 2019, Bigirimana’s career is a testament to the power of innovation, discipline, and philanthropy in achieving national development goals.
Rising Through the Ranks of Public Service
Dr. Pius Bigirimana’s journey through Uganda’s public sector began in 1985 in Mbale District, marking the start of a remarkable career that would span decades and impact multiple sectors. He steadily rose through the ranks, becoming an undersecretary at both the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Health. His competence and leadership saw him appointed as Permanent Secretary in the Office of the Prime Minister, where he was instrumental in the reconstruction of Northern Uganda through the implementation of the Peace, Recovery, and Development Plan (PRDP). This program led to significant rehabilitation efforts in the war-torn region. Additionally, the Northern Uganda Social Action Fund (NUSAF), under his oversight, became the best-performing program in terms of absorption, implementation, and accountability.
Bigirimana’s accomplishments continued as he transitioned to the Ministry of Gender, Labour, and Social Development. Here, he spearheaded the launch of two groundbreaking initiatives: the Youth Livelihood Programme (YLP) and the Uganda Women Entrepreneurship Programme (UWEP). These initiatives, aimed at tackling unemployment and poverty among youth and women, directly benefited millions of Ugandans by providing access to funding and training. Under his leadership, these programs became models of success and efficiency, a rare feat in government projects known for their red tape.
His strategic leadership ensured that these initiatives were not only funded but also closely monitored to ensure success. Through these efforts, he proved that government-led programs could achieve private sector-like efficiency with the right leadership at the helm.
Reforming Uganda’s Judiciary: A Digital Revolution and Architectural Feat
In 2019, Bigirimana took on the role of Permanent Secretary and Secretary to the Judiciary, a critical institution often marred by delays, inefficiencies, and corruption. His approach was simple: bring private sector efficiency into the courtrooms of Uganda. His crowning achievement in this role has been the introduction and implementation of the Electronic Court Case Management Information System (ECCMIS).
ECCMIS is a digital system designed to streamline court processes, reduce case backlog, and enhance transparency. The system has been hailed as a game-changer for Uganda’s judiciary. Prior to its introduction, many court cases would drag on for years, undermining justice and eroding public trust. By digitizing case management, Bigirimana has not only reduced delays but also ensured that court processes are more accessible and transparent to the public.
Bigirimana has also been responsible for an impressive infrastructural expansion in the judiciary. Under his leadership, numerous courthouses have been constructed across the country, significantly reducing the case backlog and bringing the judicial system closer to citizens, particularly in remote areas.
His oversight extended to the construction of the twin-tower complex that houses both the Supreme Court and the Court of Appeal. Commissioned by President Yoweri Museveni, this architectural marvel was completed in a record time of four years. The twin towers are not just functional but also reflect modern, forward-thinking design. The buildings boast amenities that go beyond conventional judicial facilities, including a fully-equipped gym, massage rooms, a conference center, and even a kids’ corner for breastfeeding mothers.
One of the most remarkable aspects of the project is its financial efficiency. The cost-saving of the twin-tower building has three aspects: first, a saving of 8.5 billion shillings achieved through close supervision and avoiding variations during construction; second, a saving of 6 billion shillings previously spent on rent; and third, savings from no longer needing to spend on private hotels for conferences, seminars, and workshops, thanks to the facilities now available at the Supreme Court and Court of Appeal.
Awards and Recognition
Dr. Bigirimana’s contributions to Uganda’s development have not gone unnoticed. His leadership in transforming government services has earned him numerous accolades, including Uganda’s highest civilian honor, the “Order of the Source of the Nile, Class One.” This prestigious award recognized his outstanding service and dedication to improving governance and service delivery in Uganda.
Bigirimana’s work has been recognized internationally as well. Nine years ago, he was privileged to be one of the speakers at the United Nations in New York, where he presented reforms needed to improve the UN’s performance. His insights and expertise have been valued globally, earning him a respected position in international development circles. Furthermore, he was honored with an Honorary Doctorate in Leadership and Management from Stratford University, alongside recognition from the Geofidel Institute of Leadership and Management.
In addition to these honors, Bigirimana has authored seven books, the majority of which are available on Amazon and in Kampala bookshops. These works include:
Abundance Mentality
Corruption: A Tale of Wolves in Sheep’s Clothing
Unchained: A Public Servant with a Private Sector Mindset
From Tears to Cheers: An Analysis of Northern Uganda Rehabilitation
Youth Livelihood Program: A Program for Empowering Youth in the Developing World
Corona Chronicles
Naked Truth: A Candid Book on Family Values
Philanthropic Leadership
While Bigirimana’s contributions to public service are well-known, fewer people are aware of his philanthropic endeavors. In honor of his departed sister Clare Nsenga who died of breast cancer, Bigirimana established the Clare Nsenga Health Center III, a non-paying health facility that provides preventive and curative services to the local community. The health center, with significant support from friends and well-wishers in America—particularly Dr. Dieckhaus Kevin and Bernadette Kazibwe—has constructed a maternity ward and fully furnished health workers’ quarters. These facilities were commissioned by former Prime Minister Dr. Ruhakana Rugunda.
The health center’s achievements are remarkable. To date, it has recorded over 1,000 live births with no maternal deaths. Just last week, two mothers delivered twins at the facility. The health center has been applauded for its immunization efforts and was ranked as one of the best in Kisoro District.
Bigirimana’s commitment to philanthropy reflects his belief in using his influence and resources to uplift others, extending his impact beyond the realm of public service.
Leadership with a Private Sector Mindset
What sets Dr. Bigirimana apart is his ability to integrate a private sector mindset into public administration. His focus on efficiency, accountability, and innovation is reminiscent of successful private enterprises. Unlike many public servants who shy away from taking bold steps due to bureaucratic inertia, Bigirimana has never hesitated to push for reforms, even when faced with resistance.
This mindset has earned him the respect of both his peers and the public. He has proven that government agencies can be run with the same effectiveness and discipline as private companies, and his results speak for themselves. From modernizing the judiciary to creating life-changing programs for youth and women, Bigirimana has reshaped Uganda’s public sector.
Notably, his competence and dedication have been recognized at the highest level of government. Bigirimana is one of seven Permanent Secretaries whose terms have been extended for an additional three years by President Yoweri Museveni—a testament to his value and impact on Uganda’s public administration.
Conclusion
Dr. Pius Bigirimana is a shining example of what leadership in public service should look like. His achievements across multiple sectors, from youth empowerment to judicial reform, have had a profound impact on Uganda’s development. More than that, his philanthropic efforts show that his commitment to uplifting the nation goes beyond his official duties. As Uganda continues to navigate the challenges of governance and development, leaders like Bigirimana demonstrate that a private sector mindset can be the key to unlocking public sector potential.
Through his dedication, innovation, and compassion, Dr. Pius Bigirimana has left an indelible mark on Uganda’s public sector, inspiring a new generation of leaders to follow in his footsteps.
