Kagadi Residents Demand Accountability from Leaders amid Poor Service Delivery

22 February 2024, 9:31 am

Kagadi district, residents engaged in a fervent discussion with local leaders, voicing their frustrations regarding persistently inadequate service delivery.

During a community meeting organized last evening (Wednesday) by the Prime Minister’s office at Kabuga Health Center III Premises in Muhorro sub-county, Kagadi District, residents articulated grievances concerning deficient infrastructure, healthcare, water, and education services.

They expressed awareness of drug deliveries to health facilities, yet lamented that within two days, patients were often directed to purchase medications from private clinics.

The dissatisfaction was tangible as locals underscored the challenges they faced in accessing essential services.

Moreover, incomplete reports presented by heads of departments at Kagadi Local Government, including the District Health Officer Theodora Kajumba, District Commercial Officer Posiano Tumwesigye, Engineer Charles Byaruhanga from the Roads Department, and Sub-county Chief Valence from Muhorro sub-county, further fueled residents’ discontent.

These partial reports not only astonished residents but also drew criticism from State Minister for Bunyoro Affairs, Jennifer Namuyangu Kacha.

Minister Namuyangu rebuked Kagadi District officials for submitting incomplete and, in some cases, inaccurate reports, citing a lack of seriousness.

She instructed them to rectify the reports promptly.

Expressing her dissatisfaction, Minister Namuyangu announced plans for a comprehensive forensic audit of each department to address discrepancies in their reports and ensure accountability.

Joseph Muserero, a government program monitor from the Office of the Prime Minister, emphasized the importance of such community engagements, known as barazas.

He explained that these gatherings serve to gauge the effectiveness of services reaching ordinary citizens and to ensure taxpayer money is utilized efficiently.

Muserero highlighted the role of barazas in informing government decisions regarding the allocation of services based on the needs expressed by the people.

The exchange between residents and leaders underscored the pressing need for improved service delivery and heightened accountability in Kagadi District, highlighting the significance of community involvement in governance processes