Call for Proposals: Consultancy to Conduct an Assessment on the Functionality of Local Government Public Accounts Committees.

Overview

Local Government District Public Accounts Committees (LGPACs) are established under the laws of Uganda to provide important checks on corruption and mismanagement of public resources by Public Officers. Specifically, they are empowered to ensure that public officials are accountable for the use of public funds, and help to prevent corruption and mismanagement of public resources. In line with the Decentralization Policy being implemented in Uganda, the powers of the Parliamentary Accountability committees under Article 163 (4) and (5) of the constitution of Uganda were delegated to LGPACs under section 88 of the Local Government Act CAP 243.

The Local Government Public Accounts Committees are mandated to examine the reports of the Auditor General, chief internal auditor and any reports of commissions of inquiry. Hence, they are important for promoting accountability, transparency and good governance at Local Government level, hence ensuring that public funds at the district level are used efficiently. The LGPACs are assigned to examine financial reports, ensure compliance with laws, and scrutinise public resource use. Through their oversight role, they provide an important check on corruption in local governments and improve local government’s management of public resources to promote development

Despite their role, the functionality and effectiveness of LGPACs is a pressing concern in many districts across the country as this affects the effective functioning of local governments and the overall development of a country. The ACODE Policy Briefing Paper Series No.58 (2020) on the LGPACs, highlights that many LGPACs struggle with operational challenges, including insufficient budgets and inadequate training, which limit their ability to conduct audits and enforce accountability measures.

In this regard, UNNGOF and ACFIM with support from Denmark, Sweden, the Netherlands and Ireland seek to commission an assessment on the functionality of 18 District Public Accounts Committees in the 14 subregions of Uganda. This assessment will provide actionable insights to address existing gaps and strengthen LGPACs, contributing to improved governance and service delivery.