INDUCTION OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT

COUNCILS

Session 1.1:
BACKGROUND TO DECENTRALISATION IN UGANDA
JANUARY - FEBRUARY 2017

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 Session objectives

 To describe the historic perspective and objectives of decentralisation in Uganda.

 To identify and describe different types of decentralisation.

 To cite key relevant laws relating to decentralisation in Uganda.

 Enumerate the benefits and challenges of decentralisation in Uganda to date.

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 Session outline

 Background to Decentralisation

 Principles of Decentralisation

 Objectives of Decentralisation

 Types of Decentralisation

 Devolved powers

 Benefits of and challenges facing decentralisation in Uganda

 Strengthening Decentralisation 3
 Background to Decentralisation in Uganda
 Uganda has experienced both decentralised and centralised forms of Governance since
independence.

 The 1962- 1966 Constitution and the devolution of powers.

 The 1967 Constitution re –centralisation and abolished cultural institutions

 Idi Amin Administration (1971-1979) abolished all forms of decentralisation and ruled by
decree.

 The Second UPC Government (1980- 1985)

 1986 NRM ascends to power. 4

 Principles of Decentralisation

 Devolution of powers

 Good governance

 Subsidiarity

 Popular Participation

 Partnership

 Non-Subordination

 Vertical and Downward Accountability 5

 Objectives of Decentralisation

1. Enhance the contribution of the public, private sector, civil society and
community based organizations to National Development and modernization
2. Improve the quality of service, policy formulation and management of service
delivery
3. Make efficient and effective use of available resources
4. Reduce the decision making load
5. Provide for local popular participation and increased involvement of the
people in decisions that directly affect them
6. Promote local ownership and ensure sustainability of projects and programmes
7. Enhance Local Economic Development in order to increase local incomes and
improve livelihoods
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 Types of Decentralisation

Decentralisation takes many forms;

 Deconcentration

 Devolution

 Delegation

 Privatization/Divestiture
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 Devolved Powers

Planning powers; Development Planning (s.35-37 LGA) and Physical

planning (s. 4 of the Physical Planning Act 2010)
Financial powers ; Part VIII LGA

Administrative powers; Part VI LGA

Political powers; Part X LGA

Legislative powers; s. 38 & 39 LGA

Judicial powers ; Article 127 and Local Council Court Act 2006 8
 Open discussion
 What are the benefits of Decentralisation in Uganda?

 What are the challenges facing decentralisation in Uganda?

 How can decentralisation be strengthened?

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 Benefits of Decentralisation

 Reduced red tape

 Financial transfers

 Creation of employment

 Improved physical planning

 Allowed special interest groups to be represented

 Increased public participation 10

 Challenges to Decentralisation in Uganda

Stringent revenue expenditure conditions from the centre.

Inadequate funding for decentralised services.

Poor adherence to accountability standards.

Inadequate staffing.

Failure to attract and or retain staff.

Poor information & records management 11

 How can we strengthen Decentralisation?

 Strong political commitment

 A legal framework which clearly assigns powers, functions and responsibilities at

different levels

 Supportive attitudinal behavior and mindset change

 Inspection, supervisory, mentoring, monitoring and evaluation

 Regular performance reviews

 Deepening application of ICT

 Prudent planning, financial management and accountability 12

THANK YOU

END

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