Effective Role Of Public Sector Monitoring And Evaluation In Promoting Good Governance In Uganda: Implications From The Ministry Of Local Government

ABSTRACT

The purpose of this study was to examine the effectiveness of the role of public sector monitoring and evaluation in promoting good governance in Uganda, with a focus on the Ministry of Local Government. Specifically, the study sought to: examine the effective role of M&E Accountability, M&E Management Decision, M&E Organisational Learning in promoting good governance, draw lessons from practice and provide recommendations to better inform the implementation strategy of M&E in the Ministry of Local Government. A case study design was used and both qualitative and quantitative data collection techniques were employed. The respondents comprised staff of the Ministry of Local Government and Office of the Prime Minister. The study targeted 92 participants but 85 returned the questionnaires, indicating a response rate of 97.7%. A purposive sample technique was used to select directors, commissioners, principal officers and staff of OPM; while simple random technique was used to select senior officers. Quantitative data was analysed using correlation and percentages while qualitative data was analysed using content analysis. The findings revealed a positive relationship (r=0.706 sig=0.000) between M&E Accountability and good governance, (r=0.592 sig=0.000) between M&E Management Decision and good governance and (r=0.549 sig=0.000) between Organisational Learning and good governance. It was therefore concluded that M&E enhances Accountability, Management Decision, Organisational Learning and promotes good governance. The study recommended that M&E should not only be tied to nominal compliance; but should support evidence-based decision making. M&E should be properly institutionalised, funded and located so as to mediate policy process, planning and service delivery.