Ugandas Decentralization, Accountability and Service Delivery in Kampala City Central Division, Uganda

ABSTRACT 

The purpose of this research was to investigate to what extent service delivery to local people is achieved through decentralization and effective accountability in Kampala City, Central Division. It therefore aimed at investigating the effects of decentralization on service delivery; and the relationship between Decentralization and effective accountability in improving service delivery in Kampala City, Central Division. To address the above, the Survey methodology was used to gather information from a sample of 120 respondents with the purposes describing the attributes of the population of the entire Central Division. The methodology permitted to collect quantitative as well as qualitative data through instruments such as questionnaire, interview guide, and focused group discussions. Quantitative data has been treated using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) and analyzed in form of frequency and percentage tables as well as graphs. The generated information from the findings analysis showed that the majority of the citizens of Central Division had not benefited the improved public services from Uganda’s decentralization nor noticed reinforced accountability from their leaders and service providers. In fact lack of information and capacity at grassroots has undermined participation of local citizens and lower LGs in the decentralization process. On the other hand, absence of appropriate mechanisms and systems for reward and sanctions and tolerance vis-à-vis corruption have not permitted emergence of accountable local leaders and structures. The following recommendations were made to address the shortcomings of Decentralization in Kampala City, Central Division: share relevant information with parishes, villages and citizens and build their capacities so as they are able to participate in decision making processes; reinforce financial autonomy and develop accountability mechanisms for Parishes and Villages to improve service delivery.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

DECLARATION

APPROVAL BY THE SUPERVISOR

APPROVAL SHEET -iii

DEDICATION -iv

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT -v

ABSTRACT -xii

Chapter Page

CHAPTER ONE 

THE PROBLEM AND ITS SCOPE -1

Background of the Study -1

Statement of the Problem -4

Purpose of the Study -4

Research Objectives -5

Research Questions -5

Research Hypothesis -5

Scope of the Study -5

Significance of the Study -7

Operational Definitions of Key Terms -8

CHAPTER TWO 

REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE -9

Introduction -9

Theoretical Perspectives -11

Related Studies -19

CHAPTER THREE 

METHODOLOGY -23

Research Design -23

Research Population -24

Sample Size •-24

Sampling Procedure - 26

Research Instruments -27

Validity and Reliability of the Instruments -28

Data Analysis -29

Sources of Data and data collection methods -30

Data Gathering Procedure -30

Ethical Considerations -31

Limitations of the Study - 31

CHAPTER FOUR 

PRESENTATION, ANALYSIS AND INTERPRETATION OF DATA -32

CHAPTER FIVE

FINDINGS, CONCLUSIONS, RECOMMENDATIONS -52

Findings -52

Conclusions -54

Recommendations -56

References -58

Appendices -61

Appendix I - Research Instruments -61

Appendix II - Transmittal Letter -69

Appendix III - Informed Consent -70