The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) has made history with the appointment of Ms. Agnes Kainza Nzogi as its first Permanent Secretary (PS).
When was Agnes Kainza Nzogi appointed as Permanent Secretary of ODPP?
The appointment, made by President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni on 27 Feb 2025, follows a request by the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), Lady Justice Jane Frances Abodo, to establish the position and address administrative gaps within the institution.
Nzogi’s appointment was confirmed in a statement from the ODPP, citing Article 174 (2) of the Constitution of the Republic of Uganda (1995) and the advice of the Public Service Commission.
The Head of Public Service and Secretary to Cabinet, Ms. Lucy Nakyobe, officially deployed her to the new role.
Why was Agnes Kainza Nzogi appointed as a permanent secretary?
In response to the appointment, the DPP, Lady Justice Abodo, emphasized the importance of this new position, stating that it will improve institutional efficiency and strengthen administrative leadership within the ODPP.
“The ODPP is a large institution, and its growth necessitates strong administrative leadership. Having a Permanent Secretary will allow our technical staff to focus on prosecutorial duties while ensuring that managerial and policy-related functions are effectively handled,” she said.
The introduction of this position is expected to streamline internal processes, enhance inter-ministerial collaboration, and improve institutional planning.
Nzogi’s Experience and Vision
Agnes Kainza Nzogi brings a wealth of experience in public administration. Having joined the Public Service in 2004, she has served in several key roles, including positions at the Ministry of Finance, Planning, and Economic Development, and as Under Secretary at the ODPP since 2020.
Her academic qualifications include:
- Master of Development Studies – Institute of Social Studies, The Hague
- Bachelor’s Degree in Social Sciences – Makerere University
Upon her appointment, Nzogi reaffirmed her commitment to strengthening the ODPP’s operations.
“I am honored to take on this role and will dedicate my efforts to ensuring that the ODPP functions with the highest levels of efficiency and accountability. Our work is critical in upholding justice and maintaining the rule of law,” she stated.
A Milestone for Uganda’s Justice System
Nzogi’s appointment is seen as a significant step toward enhancing Uganda’s prosecutorial framework. The ODPP acknowledged President Museveni’s “relentless support to the office” and expressed optimism about the future of the institution under Nzogi’s leadership.
Her leadership is expected to bridge the administrative and technical aspects of the ODPP, ensuring that justice processes are not only effective but also well-coordinated across government institutions.
Who Is Agnes Kainza Nzogi?
Agnes Kainza Nzogi is a seasoned Ugandan public administrator with nearly two decades of experience in government service. She has held various strategic roles, most notably as Under Secretary and Accounting Officer at the ODPP before her appointment as its first Permanent Secretary.
Nzogi holds a Master of Development Studies from the Institute of Social Studies in The Hague and a Bachelor’s Degree in Social Sciences from Makerere University. She has also worked in the Ministry of Finance, Planning, and Economic Development, Sironko District Local Government, and Compassion International.
Her leadership style is defined by efficiency, accountability, and a commitment to strengthening Uganda’s justice system. With her extensive experience and expertise, Nzogi is expected to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the ODPP and ensuring its smooth administrative operation.
