ACCOUNTABILITY AND SERVICE DELIVERY IN LOCAL GOVERNMENTS IN UGAND AT HOIMA DISTRICT LOCAL GOVERNMENT. A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY.

Abstract

Background:

Accountability is the principal measure of both local government and central government service delivery since it guarantees the principles and procedures for a sound fiscal policy and macroeconomic management. The study aims to assess the accountability and service delivery in local governments in Uganda Hoima district local government.

Methodology:

A cross-sectional study design is characterized by a quantitative approach to expressing the numerical information captured during the study. Correlation was used to establish the relationship between the objectives of the study and cross-sectional design since the study collected data at a point in time and had no follow-up.

Results:

55% of the respondents were males and 45% were females, 14% of the respondents were single, 60% were married, 14% were separated and 12% were widowed. Financial accountability ensures that funds are allocated appropriately and efficiently to different services and programs with a mean score of 4.1. Administrative accountability ensures that relevant information about government programs, policies, and resources is made accessible to the public, resulting in enhanced service delivery with a mean score of 4.5. There is a positive correlation between political accountability and service delivery, with a Pearson correlation coefficient of 0.673. There is a high level of agreement among the respondents on the importance of political accountability in ensuring effective service delivery in Hoima District Local Government.

Conclusion:

Accountability in the form of financial, administrative, and political accountability has a positive impact on service delivery in the Hoima District local government. Strengthening accountability mechanisms in these areas can potentially lead to improved service delivery outcomes.

Recommendations:

The government should promote transparency and accountability by disclosing information regarding actions and decisions to the public and encouraging citizen participation in policy-making processes.