Improving Social Accountability in Western Uganda (October 2013 – September 2019)

Objective:

This project aimed to enhance social accountability in Western Uganda by amplifying the voices of marginalized citizens and fostering constructive dialogue between them and their leaders. The initiative sought to bridge the gap between citizens and government officials, ensuring that public services met the needs of the community.

Overview:

Funded by the National Endowment for Democracy (NED), USA, this project focused on seven districts in the Rwenzori region. It utilized both traditional and modern ICT tools to enable citizens to communicate their concerns to their leaders and hold them accountable for service delivery.

Key Activities:

• Community Radio Programs: Broadcasting citizen concerns and discussions with local leaders on community radio stations to promote transparency and accountability.
• ICT Integration: Leveraging mobile platforms and social media to gather and disseminate citizen feedback on public services.
• Capacity Building: Training local leaders and citizens in effective communication and the use of ICT tools for monitoring public services.

Impact:

The project played a crucial role in improving the relationship between citizens and government officials in Western Uganda. By providing a platform for dialogue and accountability, it led to tangible improvements in public service delivery, particularly in health, education, and infrastructure. The project also empowered marginalized communities to become more actively involved in governance.