In a bold move towards promoting transparency and accountability in the operations of Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) in Uganda, the organization "Kick Corruption Out of Uganda" (KICK Uganda) is hosting a crucial summit today in Kigezi. The event, scheduled for Tuesday, October 10th, 2023, marks a significant step in fostering collaboration and exchanging ideas on the NGO Quality Assurance Certification Mechanism (QuAM) and the Charter for Change (C4C).
Against the backdrop of evolving political and governance contexts, NGOs in Uganda have faced increased scrutiny of their operations by the government. This heightened scrutiny has led to a growing public perception that NGOs, despite their diversity, are not as accountable as they should be and are sometimes operating in ways contradictory to their publicly expressed objectives and values.
The summit in Kigezi is part of a larger initiative led by the Uganda National NGO Forum (UNNGOF) to review and enhance two vital NGO self-improvement instruments: the Charter for Change (C4C) in humanitarian action and development, and the NGO Quality Assurance Certification Mechanism (QuAM).
The study is crucial, as it provides practical pathways to advance the localization agenda of C4C and support the QuAM Initiative. The QuAM process, developed by national and local NGOs, aims to establish a robust certification mechanism to ensure NGOs operate with the highest standards of accountability.
The study employs both qualitative and quantitative approaches, including surveys, focused group discussions, and key informant interviews. This comprehensive methodology seeks to gather insights from a broad spectrum of stakeholders, ensuring a thorough understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing NGOs in Uganda.
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NGOs Converge to Discuss the Roadmap for Improved Public Accountability through C4C and QuAM Initiatives at KIC-U in Kabale
Importantly, various NGOs and regions have been identified to support the consultants in organizing focused group discussions in different districts.KICK Uganda, for instance, is spearheading discussions in Kabale, targeting 10 - 15 NGO actors. This collaborative effort spans across the nation, with engagements scheduled in Soroti, Gulu, Arua, Bushenyi, and Kampala. The summit in Kigezi reflects a united effort to address concerns about NGO accountability and legitimacy. By bringing together diverse voices and perspectives, the summit aims to chart a course for NGOs to operate in a manner that aligns with the principles of accountability, transparency, and the overall betterment of Ugandan society.
As Uganda takes a significant step towards enhancing NGO accountability, the discussions in Kigezi are poised to shape the future of civil society operations in the country.The outcomes of this summit are likely to contribute to a more accountable and transparent NGO sector, aligning their actions with the needs and expectations of the communities they serve.
