INVESTIGATING THE IMPACT OF ACCOUNTABILITY ON PERFORMANCE OF ROAD SECTOR IN UGANDA: A CASE STUDY OF KAWEMPE DIVISION KAMPALA

ABSTRACT

This research investigates the intricate dynamics between accountability and the performance of road sector construction projects in Kawempe Division, Kampala, Uganda. Through a mixed-methods approach, the study explores the perceptions of 58 participants regarding political, administrative, and financial accountability dimensions. The findings reveal a generally positive outlook on accountability mechanisms. Participants express confidence in the clarity of administrative structures and transparent decision-making processes. However, nuanced views emerge concerning the consistency in meeting project timelines and the transparency of budget allocations. The interrelation between political accountability and timely project completion raises questions about the effectiveness of current political practices. Administrative accountability is viewed favorably, particularly in resource allocation and management. Yet, the study highlights a need for closer scrutiny of administrative practices to ensure efficient project delivery. Financial accountability is perceived positively, with well-established mechanisms and decisions aligning with project goals. However, there is room for improvement in communicating budgetary decisions transparently.

The study concludes that while accountability measures contribute to positive perceptions, there are challenges that warrant attention. Recommendations include enhancing community engagement, improving administrative practices, and fostering greater financial transparency. The research contributes to the understanding of accountability's role in shaping road sector performance and suggests avenues for further exploration. This work serves as a foundation for policymakers, practitioners, and researchers seeking to enhance accountability practices in road construction projects. The insights gained offer practical implications for improving project outcomes and provide a framework for future research initiatives in similar contexts.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

DECLARATION.. i

APPROVAL.. ii

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT.. iii

DEDICATION.. iv

TABLE OF CONTENTS. v

ABSTRACT.. x

CHAPTER ONE.. 1

INTRODUCTION.. 1

1.0 Introduction. 1

1.1 Background of the study. 1

1.1.1 Historical Perspective. 1

1.1.2 Theoretical perspective. 2

1.1.3 Conceptual perspective. 2

1.1.4 Contextual Perspective. 3

1.2 Problem Statement5

1.3 General objective. 6

1.4 Specific objective. 6

1.5 Research question. 6

1.6 Scope of the study. 6

Time Scope. 6

Content Scope. 6

Geographical Scope. 7

1.7 Significance of the study. 7

1.8 Conceptual framework. 8

1.9 Definition of Key Terms. 8

CHAPTER TWO.. 10

LITERATURE REVIEW... 10

2.0 Introduction. 10

2.1 Concept of Accountability. 10

2.2 Concept of Performance in the Road Sector11

2.3 Correlation Between Political Accountability and Performance of Road Sector11

2.4 Interrelation Between Administrative Accountability and Performance of Road Sector12

2.5 Connection Between Financial Accountability and Performance of Road Sector13

2.6 Literature gaps. 14

CHAPTER THREE.. 15

METHODOLOGY.. 15

3.0 Introduction. 15

3.1 Research Design. 15

3.2 Area of Study. 15

3.3 Study Population. 15

3.4 Sample Size and Selection. 15

3.5 Data Collection Methods. 16

3.6 Data Collection Instruments. 16

3.7 Research Procedure. 16

3.8 Data Analysis Approach. 16

3.9 Ethical Considerations. 16

CHAPTER FOUR.. 18

DATA PRESENTATION, ANALYSIS, AND DISCUSSION OF FINDINGS. 18

4.1 Introduction. 18

4.2 Response Rate. 18

4.3 Demographic characteristics. 18

4.4 Descriptive analysis. 21

4.4.1 Descriptive analysis: Correlation between political accountability and the performance of road sector construction projects in Kawempe Division. 21

4.4.2 Descriptive Analysis: Interrelation Between Administrative Accountability and Road Sector Performance. 23

4.4.3 Descriptive Analysis: Connection Between Financial Accountability and Road Sector Performance  25

CHAPTER FIVE.. 28

SUMMARY OF FINDINGS, DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS. 28

5.0 Introduction. 28

5.1 Summary of Findings. 28

5.2 Discussion of Findings. 28

5.2.1 Political Accountability and Road Sector Performance:28

5.2.2 Administrative Accountability and Road Sector Performance:28

5.2.3 Financial Accountability and Road Sector Performance:29

5.3 Conclusion:29

5.4 Recommendations:29

5.5 Area for Further Studies:29

REFERENCES. 30