Management of local fees and service delivery by local governments in Uganda; case study: Kampala City Council

Abstract

The study examines the management of locally collected fees and its effect on the quality service delivery. The study is carried out in the Kampala city council and specifically in the selected key service delivery areas; management of street lights, maintenance of law and order, provision of education services as well as provision of health care services. It is guided by the following objectives; to examine the management of local fees in Uganda, to examine the nature of service delivery by local governments in Uganda and to investigate the relationship between management of local fees and service delivery. In terms of methodology, the study is carried out following a descriptive research design because the study requires in-depth explanation and analysis of the perceptions and opinions of respondents towards management of local fees and service provision. Non-probability (Purposive) sampling was used to select key informants. Interviews and questionnaire guides were also used in the study From the findings, the study reveals that KCC collects many different forms of fees or taxes such as property tax, trading license, market dues and parking fees among others. Nevertheless, Poor accountability and lack of transparency is cited in management of fees. There is therefore no relationship between the fees collected and the services provided. Consequently Kampala is a dirty city, dominated by slums and poor infrastructure. Education and health facilities are so poor that private schools and hospitals have taken over. All the above services are punctuated by corruption. The study recommends the need for involvement of the community, improvement in staff remuneration as well as involvement of the central government. It also requires effective monitoring instruments that are insufficiently developed at present.