Governance practices and service delivery in national agricultural development programs in Uganda: the case of NAADS in nakasongola district

Abstract

This study examined the influence of governance practices on service delivery in national agricultural development programs taking NAADS as a case study. Specifically the study explored the influence of stakeholder participation, transparency, and accountability on service delivery of the NAADS programme. The research design was a case study. A total of 239 respondents, including 19 key informants and 220 NAADs beneficiaries, participated in the study. Primary data was obtained using a questionnaire, structured interview, and observation guide. Data was analysed using descriptive and inferential quantitative as well as qualitative methods. The findings have revealed that: Stakeholder participation, transparency, and accountability were low in the NAADS programme, but are significant factors in the service delivery of the programme. Lack of frameworks for stakeholder participation, transparency, and accountability resulted into this low contribution. Citizens wanted practical platforms where they could influence transparency and accountability by NAADS officials. Given that farmers were the major stakeholders in this programme, their engagement would improve identification of programme needs and support for governance. This would ensure that officers who run NAADS are more transparent and accountable to the tax payer. It would also increase the trust citizens put into government development programmes and they would become more willing to expend effort to achieve program objectives. The study concludes that Farmers' participation in NAADS operations increases fit between program goals and output. Accountability is very significant in performance and service delivery of National development programs. Transparency leads to better service delivery. All National development programs need to maintain good transparency practices for effectiveness. The study recommends that: A framework for stakeholder participation in national agricultural development programmes should be made by government with consultation with citizens. Farmers need to be empowered through community education on effective stakeholder engagement strategies. There is need to create a framework for ensuring transparency. Farmers need to be involved in the management of NAADS. A framework where farmers can demand for accountability from NAADS officers should also be created.