In a nation’s pursuit of growth and transformation, the role of local government leadership cannot be overstated. As Uganda positions itself towards accelerated development, the focus is shifting beyond central government policies to the very frontline of service delivery: the local government accounting officers, Chief Administrative Officers (CAOs), and Town Clerks. These are the individuals whose presence, decisions, and leadership directly shape the day-to-day realities of communities across the country.
At a recent strategic engagement held at the Grand Imperial Hotel in Kampala, the Head of Public Service, Ms. Lucy Nakyobe, underscored a critical message. Transformational leadership at the local level is no longer optional. It is an urgent national imperative.
Beyond Routine: Proactive Leadership for National Progress
Addressing CAOs and Town Clerks from cities and municipalities, Ms. Nakyobe urged accounting officers to “assert their presence” in their duty stations. But presence, she emphasized, is not merely physical. It is about proactive, responsive leadership that goes beyond routine tasks. It requires a conscious effort to understand the unique needs of communities and initiate interventions that respond to those needs.
“In every district, town, or city, there are challenges, but equally, there are opportunities,” Ms. Nakyobe remarked. “The accounting officers must lead from the front, shaping solutions that drive social and economic transformation.”
Strengthening Systems for Better Service Delivery
The Permanent Secretary for Local Government, Mr. Ben Kumumanya, echoed this call for enhanced leadership, emphasizing that good governance must be backed by strengthened systems and accountability mechanisms. His message to accounting officers was clear.
Prioritise recruitment of competent staff to fill existing gaps.
Intensify the fight against corruption at all levels.
Embrace the automation of local revenue management to improve efficiency.
Strengthen road maintenance and infrastructure supervision.
Ensure effective oversight of extension services critical to agriculture and community livelihoods.
He also stressed the strategic use of deputy accounting officers to monitor staff performance at lower local governments and ensure service delivery reaches the grassroots.
Leadership That Reflects in Communities
Transformational leadership at the local level translates into visible, tangible improvements in people’s lives. Better roads, functional health centres, efficient revenue systems, reliable service delivery, and, critically, the rebuilding of public trust in government institutions.
Uganda’s journey towards becoming a truly inclusive, productive, and resilient nation requires leaders who are present, visible, and visionary at every level, from Kampala to the most remote villages.
A Rising Nation Needs Leaders Who Show Up
As Rising Nation continues to spotlight the individuals and institutions shaping Uganda’s growth, this call to action for local government leaders reflects a fundamental truth. National transformation starts with leadership that is felt, leadership that delivers, and leadership that transforms.
The future of Uganda depends not only on policies crafted in boardrooms but also on the integrity, innovation, and commitment of those entrusted with implementing them where it matters most: in our communities.
