Enhancing Citizen Engagement in Northern Uganda Through Digital Technologies for Improved Transparency and Accountability in Governance - “Piloting the GTIN Civic Bridge Platform”
The Global Tech Inclusion Network (GTIN), with support from the Digital Democracy Initiative in Sub-Saharan Africa (DDISA), is implementing a project to strengthen citizen engagement, transparency, accountability, and responsiveness in public service delivery in Northern Uganda, thus strengthening Local Democracy.
At the centre of the project is the GTIN Civic Bridge Platform, an inclusive civic-tech innovation designed to create a two-way communication channel between citizens and duty bearers. The platform will enable citizens to report service delivery concerns, submit queries and complaints, and receive feedback from relevant authorities.
Designed for rural and underserved communities, the platform will use web, mobile, USSD, and SMS channels, ensuring participation even where internet access and digital literacy are limited. It will also incorporate local languages, free access, privacy protections, and anonymous reporting to promote safe and inclusive participation.
Technology will be complemented by community radio engagements, digital literacy training, community mobilisation, and stakeholder dialogues, alongside Voluntary Social Accountability Committees to support citizens in raising and following up on concerns.
Ultimately, the project seeks to create stronger connections between citizens and duty bearers, demonstrating how digital technologies can amplify citizen voices, promote responsive governance, and contribute to more inclusive and participatory democracy in Northern Uganda.
