THe Career
Dr Pius Bigirimana
Pius Bigirimana is a highly regarded senior civil servant in Uganda, currently serving as thePermanent Secretary and Secretary to the Judiciary—one of the three constitutionally mandated arms of government alongside the Executive and Legislature. With a distinguished career spanning over 30 years in Public Administration, he has held the highest non-political office in Uganda’s Civil Service since 1984. Throughout his tenure, he has played a pivotal role in shaping national governance, championing institutional reforms, and driving efficiency in public service delivery.
POSITIONS HELD AT INTERNATIONAL LEVEL
CHAIRPERSON (2024 - TO DATE) Southern and Eastern Africa Judicial Administrators Association (SEAJAA).
Providing Strategic Leadership – Steering the association towards achieving its
vision of a strong and efficient judicial administration system in Southern and
Eastern Africa.
Enhancing Regional Judicial Cooperation – Facilitating collaboration among judicial administrators from Southern and Eastern African countries to promote best practices in judicial administration. Strengthening Judicial Governance – Advocating for the rule of law, democracy, and the independence of the Judiciary within member states.
Capacity Building & Training – Leading initiatives to develop training programs for judicial administrators, enhancing their effectiveness and professional competence. Policy Development & Implementation – Spearheading the creation of policies aimed at improving judicial administration efficiency and transparency.
Promoting Institutional Development – Assisting in strengthening judicial administration institutions across member countries to enhance judicial service delivery.
Advancing Judicial Transparency & Accountability – Overseeing the development of mechanisms to uphold high standards of professionalism, transparency, and accountability in judicial administration.
Facilitating Knowledge Exchange – Establishing platforms for dialogue on rule of law, governance, constitutionalism, human rights, and judicial processes.
Publishing & Information Dissemination – Overseeing the production of bulletins and encouraging member contributions to promote knowledge sharing.
Building Strategic Partnerships – Coordinating collaborations with international bodies and organizations with similar objectives to enhance judicial administration.
Organizing Conferences & Workshops – Leading regional forums that bring together judicial administrators to discuss challenges and innovative solutions injustice administration.
Representing the Association – Acting as the key spokesperson and official representative in regional and international judicial and governance forums.
BOARD MEMBER (2017 -2019) International Labour Organisation
- Represented Uganda as a Board Member and provided strategic oversight as a Board Member of the International Labour Organization, influencing global labour policies and regulatory frameworks.
- Championed international labor standards, advocating for equitable employment policies, social protection, and sustainable economic growth.
- Engaged with World leaders, multinational organizations, and policymakers to shape global labor market strategies and workforce development initiatives.
- Strengthened alignment between national labor policies and international best practices, driving economic resilience and inclusive labor reforms.
- Provided strategic leadership as a Board Member of the International Labour Organization (ILO), shaping global labor policies to enhance social justice, economic resilience, and sustainable employment.
- Advocated for international labor standards, focusing on employment rights, social protection, workplace safety, and equitable economic opportunities.
- Played a key role in developing policies that promote decent work, fair wages, and inclusive labor markets, ensuring labor market adaptability in response to emerging economic and technological trends.
- Strengthened Uganda’s representation in global labor governance, ensuring the country’s policies align with international frameworks for economic growth and workforce development.
CHAIRPERSON (2016-2019) Uganda National Authority for Chemical Weapons Convention
- Provided strategic leadership as Chairperson of the Uganda National Authority for
the Chemical Weapons Convention, ensuring compliance with international
disarmament protocols. - Led national efforts to implement the Chemical Weapons Convention, strengthening regulatory frameworks and security measures.
- Engaged with global organizations, including the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW), in the Hague to enhance Uganda’s role in global non-proliferation initiatives.
- Championed capacity-building programs, fostering international cooperation in Chemical Security, safety, and responsible scientific innovation.
CHAIRPERSON (2009-2013) 2013Joint Budget Support Framework
- Provided strategic leadership as Chairperson of the Joint Budget Support Framework, overseeing collaboration between 10 major development partners and the Government of Uganda.
- Led high-level negotiations to align international development assistance with Uganda’s national priorities, ensuring effective resource allocation and fiscal sustainability.
- Strengthened partnerships with multilateral institutions, driving policy coherence and accountability in public financial management.
- Advocated for transparent and results-driven budget support mechanisms, enhancing economic resilience and sustainable development outcomes.
CHAIRPERSON (2010-2011) National Evaluation of Paris Declaration Principles on Aid Effectiveness, UgandaProvided
- Provided strategic leadership as Chairman of the National Evaluation of the Paris
Declaration Principles on Aid Effectiveness in Uganda, ensuring alignment of
international aid with national development goals. - Led the assessment of aid effectiveness, focusing on ownership, harmonization, alignment, results, and mutual accountability in Uganda’s development cooperation framework.
- Engaged with global donors, government agencies, and development partners to enhance coordination and policy impact.
- Strengthened mechanisms for transparent aid utilization, driving efficiency, sustainability, and long-term economic growth.
CHAIRPERSON (2009-2010) Partnership Policy Development Committee, Office of the Prime Minister of Uganda
- Uganda Provided strategic leadership as Chairperson of the Joint Budget Support Framework, overseeing collaboration between 10 major development partners and the Government of Uganda.
- Led high-level negotiations to align international development assistance with Uganda’s national priorities, ensuring effective resource allocation and fiscal sustainability.
- Strengthened partnerships with multilateral institutions, driving policy coherence and accountability in public financial management.
- Advocated for transparent and results-driven budget support mechanisms, enhancing economic resilience and sustainable development outcomes.
POSITIONS HELD IN THE UGANDA CIVIL SERVICE
PERMANENT SECRETARY / SECRETARY (AUG 2019 - TO DATE) The Judiciary of Uganda
- Promoting and supporting judicial reforms by implementing policies that enhanceefficiency, integrity, and accountability within the Judiciary, ensuring a fair andaccessible justice system for all.
- Strengthening financial accountability through transparent budget management,cost-effective resource allocation, and strict adherence to financial regulations toenhance judicial operations.
- Promoting digital modernization by introducing e-justice platforms, casemanagement systems, and automated court processes to improve efficiency,reduce delays, and promote transparency.
- Supporting and financing case management by streamlining court processes,integrating technology, and enhancing judicial training programs to ensure timelyand effective handling of cases.
- Supporting the reduction of backlogs through specialized initiatives such as fast-tracking cases, expanding alternative dispute resolution mechanisms, andincreasing judicial capacity to enhance timely justice delivery.
- Supporting the alignment of the Judiciary with international standards byadopting global best practices in judicial independence, human rights protection,and court efficiency to strengthen Uganda’s legal framework.
- Supported the establishment of retirement benefits for judicial officers to providelong-term financial security, ensuring judicial independence and motivatingofficers to uphold the rule of law with dedication.
- Overseeing the construction of the Supreme, Court of Appeal and High Courts toexpand judicial infrastructure, reduce congestion, and improve access to justicewhile optimizing government resources and operational costs.
- Leading the construction of Regional Courts to bring justice closer tocommunities, reducing transportation burdens, improving judicial accessibility,and enhancing service delivery across the country.
- Enhancing transportation facilities for judicial officers and court officials. Ensuringtimely court proceedings, improving service delivery across all regions, andpromoting judicial effectiveness nationwide.
- Promoting Performance Enhancement tool to assess performance of the judicialofficers.
PERMANENT SECRETARY (JUL 2013 - AUG 2019) Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development
- Improved social protection programs, strengthened employment frameworks, and aligned national policies with international labor and human rights standards.
- Led social development initiatives, enhanced labor policies, and promoted gender equality and inclusion as per the international standards.
PERMANENT SECRETARY (OCT 2008 - JUN 2013) Office of the Prime Minister, Uganda
- Improved inter-agency collaboration, ensured effective implementation of government policies, and aligned Uganda's development goals with international standards.
- Coordinated government programs, managed disaster response, and oversaw national development initiatives.
UNDER SECRETARY (JUL 2006 - APR 2008) Ministry of Health, Uganda
- Managed healthcare policies, oversaw medical services, and ensured public health system efficiency.
- Improved healthcare delivery, strengthened health infrastructure, and aligned national health programs with global health standards.
UNDER SECRETARY (FEB 2005 - JUN 2006) Ministry of Public Service, Uganda
- Led public service reforms, enhanced workforce efficiency, and promoted employee welfare.
- Improved service delivery, strengthened human resource management, and aligned public sector policies with international best practices.
UNDER SECRETARY (FEB 1999 - JAN 2005) Ministry of Education and Sports, Uganda
- Oversaw educational policies, promoted sports development, and enhanced curriculum standards.
- Improved access to quality education, strengthened the sports infrastructure, and aligned national educational goals with global standards.
PRINCIPAL ASSISTANT SECRETARY (MAY 1993 - JAN 1999) Office of the President, Uganda
- Assisted in the coordination of presidential directives, managed key government projects, and supported policy implementation.
- Improved administrative efficiency, ensured effective communication across government bodies, and aligned national strategies with international governance standards.
SENIOR ASSISTANT SECRETARY (DEC 1988 - APR 1993) Office of the President, Uganda
- Managed administrative functions, supported policy implementation, and ensured effective government operations.
- Enhanced service delivery, streamlined workflows, and aligned public administration with national and international standards.
ASSISTANT SECRETARY (JUN - NOV 1998) Ministry of Local Government, Uganda
- Supported local governance, coordinated administrative functions, and assisted in policy implementation.
- Enhanced service delivery, strengthened local government structures, and aligned decentralization efforts with national development goals.
ASSISTANT SECRETARY/PERSONAL ASSISTANT (FEB1986 - SEP 1987) Minister Ministry of Justice and Attorney General, Uganda
- Oversaw legal affairs, guided judicial reforms, and ensured adherence to the rule of law.
- Strengthened the justice system, enhanced legal frameworks, and aligned national policies with international legal standards.
- Served as the personal Assistant to the minister of Justice and Attorney General
ASSISTANT DISTRICT COMMISSIONER (JUL 1984 - JAN 1986) Mbale District, Uganda
- Oversaw district administration, coordinated government programs, and supported local governance.
- Improved service delivery, strengthened community development initiatives, and ensured alignment with national policies.
ASSISTANT DISTRICT COMMISSIONER (NOV 1983 - JUN 1984) Kisoro District, Uganda
- Oversaw district administration, coordinated government programs, and supported local governance.
- Improved service delivery, strengthened community development initiatives, and ensured alignment with national policies.
PROJECTS AND PROGRAMMES
ROLL OUT OF VIDEO CONFERENCING PROGRAMME IN COURTS AND PRISONS AS A STANDARD (2019-2025)
Video Conferencing facilities introduced in Buganda Road Court linked to Luzira. Introduced other similar facilities to Arua High Court, Masindi High Court; Mbarara High Court, Jinja High Court and Masaka High Court.
PROCUREMENT OF ELECTRONIC COURT CASE MANAGEMENTINFORMATION SYSTEM (ECCMIS) (2019-2024)
This is a system meant to automate the Case Management process in the Courts from-filing to archival including on line services to citizens. Focus is on expedited delivery of Justice and minimizing of corruption
CONSTRUCTION OF THE SUPREME COURT AND COURT OFAPPEAL BUILDINGS (2019 -2023)
Turnkey Buildings to save Government rent of about Shs.6bn annually
RENOVATION, RE-OPERATIONALIZATION OF YOUTHREHABILITATION CENTRES (2013 - 2019)
- Kampiringisa National Rehabilitation Centre
- Ruti National Rehabilitation Centre
- Kabale Remand Home
- Naguru Remand Home
- Naguru Reception Centre
- Fort Portal Remand Home
- Kireka Rehabilitation Centre
- Kabale Rehabilitation Centre
GREEN JOBS PROGRAMME (2017 - 2019)
Establishment of Songhai Model at Kampiringisa Rehabilitation Centre: This is anOrganic Production System that is Integrated in Nature from Primary production toSecondary and Tertiary
UGANDA WOMEN ENTREPRENEURSHIP PROGRAMME (2015 - 2022)
A Revolving Women Entrepreneurship Programme Fund that reached close to 180,000 individual women in five years. It economically empowered women through self-reliant enterprises.
YOUTH LIVELIHOOD PROGRAMME (2013 - 2018)
A five year Programme that saw the empowerment up to 250,000 individual Youth in various Enterprises some of which were in value addition. This reduced unemployment ratio, stimulated local creativity and enriched vocational skills.
DEVELOPMENT OF PARTNERSHIP POLICY WITHIN THE JOINTBUDGET SUPPORT FRAMEWORK (2010 - 2013)
Aligning operations of the Development Partners with Government of UgandaPractices and Systems.
NORTHERN UGANDA SOCIAL ACTION FUND (2010 - 2013)
Post War Resettlement Project of the 95% Internally displaced persons providing Livelihoods
DEVELOPMENT OF GOVERNMENT ASSESSMENT TOOLREFERRED TO AS THE UGANDA ANNUAL GOVERNMENTPERFORMANCE REVIEW MECHANISM (2008 - 2013)
Commonly referred to as the Traffic Light System that facilitates evaluation of the performance of Government Ministries, Departments and Agencies, semi Annually and Annually against set targets
KARAMOJA INTEGRATED DISARMAMENT AND DEVELOPMENTPROGRAMME (2008 - 2013)
Provision of Water, Security and Permanent Housing.
KARAMOJA LIVELIHOODS PROGRAMME (KALIP) (2008 - 2013)
Provision of means of productive Oxen and Ox Ploughs.
AGRICULTURAL LIVELIHOODS AND RECOVERY PROGRAMME (ALREP) (2008-2013)
Provision of Stable Food Economy
PEACE RECOVERY AND DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMME (PRDP) (2008 - 2013)
Post War Economic Recovery and Resettlement Plan with Infrastructure Development
LONG TERM INSTITUTIONAL ARRANGEMENTS FOR GLOBALFUND AND GAVI (2006 - 2007)
An institutional mechanisms developed which assured Global Fund smooth flow, utilization and accountability of Global funds. This followed previous mismanagement of the funds which had led to the suspension of the fund.
DEVELOPMENT OF A MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDINGBETWEEN GOVERNMENT OF UGANDA AND DEVELOPMENTPARTNERS TO SUPPORT THE PUBLIC SERVICE REFORMPROGRAMME (2006 - 2007)
High Level Stakeholder engagement that attracted funding for the construction of National Archives Centre and Civil Service College, Jinja
ACADEMIC TRAINING / QUALIFICATION
Honorary Doctorate in Leadership and Management 2021
Geofidel Institute of Leadership and Management London - UK
in collaboration with Stratford University (USA)
Masters Degree in Business Administration 2010
Eastern and Southern Africa Management Institute (ESAMI),
Arusha Tanzania.
Master of Arts Degree in Development Administration and Management 1991
Victoria University of Manchester, United Kingdom
Majoring in Economic and Social Policy
Postgraduate Diploma in Development Administration 1988
Victoria University of Manchester, United Kingdom
Majoring in Economic and Social Policy
Bachelors’ Degree majoring in Political Science and Public Administration 1984
Makerere University,
Kampala, Uganda
“True leadership is not about position, but about mindset — serving with integrity, embracing abundance, and building systems that outlast us.”
- Dr. Pius Bigirimana
PROFESSIONAL/NON-ACADEMIC TRAINING
Certificate in High Performance Board Management Dec 2017
Global Focus Group, Dubai
Certificate as a Master Trustee Jan 2016
Johannesburg School of Finance - Midland, South Africa
Certificate in Enhancing Corporate Governance May 2014
Kenya Institute of Directors, Mombasa-Kenya
Certificate in Development and Programme Evaluation 2011
International Programme for Development Evaluation Training(IPDET) - Carleton University, Ottawa, Canada
Certificate in Knowledge Management 2005
Management University, Singapore
Certificate in Introduction to new Public Procurement System 2003
Public Procurement and Disposal of Public Assets Authority,Uganda
Certificate in Corporate Values 2002
Management Training and Advisory Centre, Uganda
Certificate in Purchasing Strategy 2002
Crown Agents, Worthing, UK
Certificate in Human Resource Development Administration 2001
Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), Tokyo, Japan
Certificate in Aid Negotiation and Coordination Programme 2001
Eastern and Southern African Management Institute (ESAMI),
Kampala, Uganda
Certificate with a Distinction in Budgeting and Financial Management in the Public Sector 2000
John F. Kennedy School of Government, Harvard University, USA
Certificate in Good Practice in Public Expenditure Management 1999
Applied Fiscal Research Centre (AFREC) - South Africa
Certificate in Managing People, Results and Change 1998
Uganda Management Institute, Kampala, Uganda
Certificate in Program for Senior Managers in Government 1997
John F. Kennedy School of Government, Harvard University, USA
Certificate in Value-Added Management Procurement 1995
Logistics Management Association, Uganda
Certificate in Financial Management 1994
Royal Institute of Public Administration (RIPA), UK
Certificate in High Level Information Technology 1994
Royal Institute of Public Administration (RIPA), UK
Certificate in Law for Administrative Officers 1986
Law Development Centre, Kampala, Uganda
PRESENTATIONS AT SPEAKING ENGAGEMENTS
FEBRUARY 2021
Netherlands Virtual panelist at the 11th Annual Innovating Justice Forum. Presented a paper on the theme: “Why is an Enabling Environment for people centered justice so important?”
FEBRUARY 2020
Panelist at the 10th Annual Innovation Justice Forum. Presented apaper on the theme: “Funding of Judiciary Innovations and whyit makes sense to invest in it” in the Hague, Netherlan
APRIL 2013
Discussant at the High-Level Panel of the United Nations EvaluationGroup in New York. I represented United Nation Countries anddelivered a paper on Traffic Light System of Evaluation
APRIL 2013
Presented a paper on “Traffic Light System of Evaluation in Uganda” at the International Initiative for Impact Evaluation, London, UK
APRIL 2012
Chaired Plenary Session and presented a paper at the International Initiative for Impact Evaluation (3ie) High-Level Development Country Stakeholder Consultation in Rome, Italy
OCTOBER 2011
Presented a paper and chaired a Session at the DCF High-Level Symposium on "Working together to increase the development impact of aid” organized by The United Nations Department for Economic and Social Affairs, Office for ECOSOC Support and Coordination, Luxembourg
FEBRUARY 2011
Presented Uganda’s position paper at the Paris Declaration Evaluation International Reference Group Meeting organized by OECD-DAC network on Evaluation of the Paris Declaration at The International Institute of Danish Development Cooperation, Copenhagen, Denmark
JUNE 2010
Presented a paper at a High-Level symposium of the 2010Development Cooperation Forum (DCF) organized by Government of Finland and the United Nations in Helsinki, Finland
MARCH 2010
Was a panelist and represented Africa at a High-Level Forum on Eliminating World Poverty themed: “Building Our Common Future; Getting to 2015: Millennium Development Goals and Beyond”. It was organized by DFID and took place in London, United Kingdom
December 2009
Presented amendments to the Evaluation Guidelines at theInternational Reference Group Workshop on the evaluation of theimplementation of the Paris Declaration Principles. This event wasorganized by OECD-DAC Conference Centre and took place inParis, France
APRIL 2009
Presented a Paper entitled, “Integration and Resettlement of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) - a case for Uganda”. This event was organized by the United Nations Department for Economic and Social Affairs (ECOSOC) and took place in Geneva, Switzerland
FEBRUARY 2009
Presented a paper at a Study Workshop of the Sri Lanka Monitoringand Evaluation System. The paper covered the Implementation ofthe Paris Declaration Principles on Aid Effectiveness. The event wasorganized by The International Program for Development EvaluationTraining (IPDET), The International Development EvaluationAssociation (IDEAS) and the Government of Sri Lanka, Colombo.
FEBRUARY 2009
Presented a paper at a Study Workshop of the Sri Lanka Monitoring and Evaluation System. The paper covered the Implementation of the Paris Declaration Principles on Aid Effectiveness. The event was organized by The International Program for Development Evaluation Training (IPDET), The International Development Evaluation Association (IDEAS) and the Government of Sri Lanka, Colombo.
FEBRUARY 2009
Presented a paper and Chaired a Session at the Development Evaluation Workshop and at the 2nd International Reference Group Meeting on Phase II of the Evaluation of the Implementation of Paris Declaration Principles on Aid Effectiveness. The event was organized by OECD Development Assistance Committee (DAC)Network, Auckland, New Zealannd
AUGUST 2000
Ethiopia Presented a paper on the Education Sector Wide Approach entitled, “The Role of Funding Agencies (The Ugandan Experience)”. The event took place in New Hampshire, USA
MARCH 2000
Was a discussant at a workshop on Poverty Reduction Strategies inAfrica for Senior Policy Makers in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
JUNE 1999
Presented a paper at a workshop on Good Practice in PublicExpenditure Management. The event took place in Cape Town,South Africa.
MAY 1990
Was a discussant at a conference on the Role of IFAD in Third WorldCountries in Rome, Italy
JULY 1988
Presented a paper on “Local Government as the answer to RuralDevelopment” at a workshop in the Hague, Netherlands
MARCH 1988
Was a discussant at a workshop on the Role of European Economic Community in Developing Countries, Luxembourg
AWARDS
Distinguished Order of the Nile
Dr. Pius Bigirimana, the Permanent Secretary to the Judiciary is one of the two only Ugandans, according to Ministry of Gender, to be recognized with the "Distinguished Order of the Source of the Nile Class One" an accolade he received on May 1 2023, as the nation celebrated Labour Day in Namutumba District. The award was given because Dr. Pius Bigirimana has contributed enormously to the social and economic transformation, shaping the moral fabric of the nation, impacting on women and the elderly in their different cycles of services.
The Independence Award
This is awarded to recognize individuals in the Armed Forces,Police Force, Local Government, Civil servants and otherresidents who rendered outstanding public service that buildsup the nation. These commendations not only honorexceptional dedication and bravery but also serve as aninspiration for others to contribute positively to theircommunities. Recipients of such awards often embody thevalues of integrity, selflessness, and commitment to thegreater good. Their efforts, whether through acts of heroismor consistent, reliable service, help strengthen societal bondsand foster a culture of excellence and community spirit. Asrole models, they encourage future generations to engage inmeaningful actions that promote peace, development, andunity within the nation.
Excellent Performance Award
AWARDS. This Award by the Judiciary is presented by the Chief Justice in recognition of Excellent Performance as Secretary to the Judiciary and Accounting Officer of the Judiciary in the efficient and effective Procurement, Financial Mobilization ,Construction supervision and timely delivery of the Supreme Court and Court of Appeal Buildings project from 2019 to2024.This reward testifies of how ones dedication and leadership have significantly contributed to strengthening the Judiciary’s infrastructure and service delivery.
Appreciation Award by Pepperdine University
This award recognizes my unwavering dedication to effectiveadministration, strategic leadership, and commitment toenhancing justice delivery through efficient resourcemanagement, streamlined operations, and theimplementation of policies that promote transparency,accountability, and accessibility within the Judiciary.
NSSF Dedicated Service Award
AwardPresented in recognition of my outstanding leadership,unwavering dedication, and exceptional service as Director,NSSF Trustee from 2013 to 2019. This award honors mycommitment to the growth, stability, and strategicdevelopment of the National Social Security Fund, ensuringfinancial security for members, promoting good governance,and fostering sustainable investment initiatives for long-termnational impact.
My Books
Abundance Mentality
My Autobiography
CORRUPTION - A TALE OF WOLVES IN SHEEP'S CLOTHING
My experiences in fighting corruption in Uganda's Public Service
UnChained
A Public Servant With A Private Sector Mindset
Dr. Pius Bigirimana
“True leadership is not about position, but about mindset — serving with integrity, embracing abundance, and building systems that outlast us.”
— Dr. Pius Bigirimana
Copyright © 2026 Dr. Pius Bigirimana. All Rights Reserved.