KCCA OFFICIALS TRAINED ON DATA USE IN SELECTION, APPRAISAL OF PROJECTS

In a bid to enhance transparency and accountability in infrastructure project planning and implementation, Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) has commissioned a training program for public officials on data collection and project appraisal at the Fairway Hotel in Kampala on June 5.

The training, organized in partnership with the Infrastructure Transparency Initiative (CoST) and the African Freedom of Information Center (AFIC), aims to strengthen the capacity of public officers to gather and utilize data to inform the selection and appraisal of infrastructure projects that directly impact communities.

Speaking on behalf of the Executive Director, Daniel Nuweabine, the Head of Public and Corporate Affairs, emphasized that “strengthening our capacity for data collection equips us with tools and knowledge to develop data that can guide infrastructure planning. Data helps ensure projects serve the public interest in a transparent manner and provides a trail of evidence that the public can use to hold us accountable.”

Nuweabine further highlighted that officials had explored 32 critical data points that can enhance transparency in how infrastructure projects are selected and appraised ensuring that development is not only technically sound but also socially responsive.

Doreen Akatuhwera, the Deputy Director of KCCA’s Procurement and Disposal Unit, acknowledged the role of CoST in improving procurement processes at the Authority.

“KCCA has worked with CoST since 2017, and this partnership has greatly strengthened the integrity of our procurement systems,” Akatuhwera said.

Gilbert Sendugwa, Executive Director of AFIC, underscored the significance of public infrastructure in improving daily lives mentioning markets, schools, and health facilities as essential investments.

“However,” he noted, “shortfalls in infrastructure planning have sometimes led to unintended consequences such as flooding of homes and inaccessibility. Discussions like this one are critical in shaping data-informed infrastructure that serves everyone and protects the environment.”

Participants engaged in dialogue on how to ensure that data-driven infrastructure development addresses community needs, minimizes environmental impact, and remains accountable to the public.

The initiative signals a growing commitment by KCCA to make infrastructure planning more inclusive, evidence-based, and aligned with the principles of transparency and public participation.

By Geofrey Mutegeki Araali

Communication and Media Relations Officer