MoLG, UNDP Strengthen Partnership to Boost Local Governance and Service Delivery

The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Local Government (MoLG), Ben Kumumanya, has held a meeting with the UNDP Resident Representative in Uganda, Ms. Nwanne Vwede-Obahor, at the UNDP offices in Kampala to strengthen collaboration on local governance and service delivery.

The engagement highlighted the impact of the Market Vendor Management System (MVMS), currently being piloted in Busia and Lira markets. The system has significantly improved revenue performance, enhanced transparency through full revenue visibility, and promoted data-driven governance within local government markets.

Kumumanya commended UNDP for its continued support and called for expanded collaboration, including increased financial assistance, technical expertise, and strategic implementation support to scale the system to more markets across the country. As part of its ongoing support, UNDP handed over essential equipment such as printers, laptops, and point-of-sale devices to facilitate the effective operation of the MVMS in Busia and Lira.

The meeting also underscored the need to induct newly elected local government leaders following the recent elections. Both parties emphasized the importance of capacity building to strengthen service delivery at the local level. UNDP committed to supporting Training of Trainers in Local Economic Development (LED), equipping local governments with practical skills to translate development concepts into impactful local initiatives.

In addition, UNDP pledged support to the Ministry in strengthening procurement processes within local governments. Ms. Nwanne Vwede-Obahor noted that the goal is to enhance efficiency and transparency in local government operations, ensuring that development initiatives deliver tangible benefits to communities.

The Ministry of Local Government has already developed training manuals and has requested UNDP’s support in validating the materials, as well as facilitating the rollout of the induction programme.

The engagement reaffirmed the strong partnership between MoLG and UNDP in advancing efficient, accountable, and development-oriented local governance in Uganda.