governance 13 June 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Wakiso District Faces Information Gaps, Launches New Communication Strategy
A recent study revealed that a significant majority of Wakiso residents are unaware of crucial government programs, leading the district to implement a new five-year communication strategy to bridge this gap. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/majority-of-wakiso-residents-unaware-of-key-govt-programmes-study--5495146
Wakiso District is rolling out a new communication strategy for the next five years, from 2026 to 2030, in an effort to boost public awareness and regain trust in government initiatives. This move comes after a concerning study highlighted widespread information deficits among the local population.
The research, conducted by Ultimate Multimedia Consult (U) Ltd, found that many residents lack knowledge about key programs like the Parish Development Model (PDM) and projects under the World Bank-funded Greater Kampala Metropolitan Area Urban Development Programme (GKMA-UDP).
Specifically, the study indicated that 72 percent of residents distrusted the district’s communication channels, and a staggering 71 percent had never attended any district meetings. Under the GKMA-UDP, only a mere 12 percent of those surveyed understood their rights and the project timelines. The information gap concerning the PDM was also substantial, with 68 percent of respondents having no clear understanding of how the program operates, and only 14 percent feeling they grasped its mechanisms.
“There’s a lot of dissatisfaction in communities, with many residents expressing grievances about district authorities,” stated Gerald Businge, the lead researcher. The comprehensive study involved 1,500 residents across various administrative units within Wakiso, along with interviews with district officials and focus group discussions.
Compounding the issue, the district’s communication unit faces severe staffing shortages, with a single officer attempting to serve a population of approximately 3.4 million. To address these challenges, the report recommends hiring more communication personnel, holding regular community meetings, and enhancing collaboration with local council leaders to improve information dissemination and feedback.
Prossy Nakalembe, the Senior Communications Officer, acknowledged the communication hurdles and expressed confidence that the new strategy will foster better public engagement and participation. The district anticipates that improved communication will streamline the implementation of government projects and rebuild public confidence.
This initiative aims to enhance access to vital information, strengthen public trust, and encourage greater involvement in developmental programs, ultimately aiming for more satisfactory service delivery to the people of Wakiso.