PROJECT BACK GROUND.
The project has been running for several years. It’s aimed at making community leaders accountable and transparent in their service to communities, helping communities be knowledgeable on elections, good governance, democracy, human rights observance and the rule of law. It empowers women to advocate for women and child rights and enhances women skills in business management. It empowers youth in business skill development and active participation in the governance of their areas.
The project targets Village local council leaders from local council one to three(LCI to LCIII), area councilors, religious leaders, opinion leaders women and youth leaders.
The project has been implemented in various sub counties in Kabarole, Kyenjojo, Bunyangabu and Kamwenge districts. Currently its operating in Butunduzi, Kahunge and Busiriba sub counties in Kamwenge and Kyenjojo districts.
ACHIEVEMENTS OF THE PROJECT.
Women can now take leadership positions in their areas.
There are reduced cases of domestic violence because of collective budgeting in households.
Community leaders have been enlightened on their role in good governance. Leaders have gained knowledge on the constitution of the republic of Uganda, the local government act and the local council courts act and can interpret the information within.
Village leaders holding a group discussion on the constitution of the republic of Uganda
SUCCESS STORY.
Alex the chairperson local council Three (LCIII) Butunduzi says “The Justice and Peace office- Caritas Fort Portal has been implementing a good governance project in Butunduzi sub county Kyenjojo district since 2017. The project has registered enormous success in the sub county. Local council leaders were trained on their roles and responsibilities. Before the project, the sub county court would handle 10 to 15 cases a year arising from mismanaged civil disputes in the villages. After trainings of local council leaders on their civil jurisdiction in respect of adjudication and settlement of civil disputes, we currently register no cases in the sub county court. Leaders and the community members are able to do community development especially on community access roads unlike in the past where community development on community access roads would call for the intervention of the sub county. Due to training of councilors on their roles, there is a smooth working relationship between the technical staff of the sub county and the council. The quality of debate improved in the council. Councilors are able to do research, consult their electorates before making presentations in the council”
A training session of village leaders on good governance.
CONCLUSION.
Change of mindset in communities is a gradual process and continuous due to constant change of leadership. This calls for continuous sensitization foe effective results.
