Title: Challenges Faced By Local Governments in Service Delivery: A Case of Mbarara Town Council, Mbarara City
Authors: Resty Ntabanganyimana, Rhobinah Tusiime Kabarura,
Volume: 9
Issue: 10
Pages: 271-290
Publication Date: 2025/10/28
Abstract:
The study investigated the challenges faced in local governments in service delivery in Mbarara Town Council, Mbarara District. The objectives that guided this study included to establish how inadequate funding hinders service delivery in Mbarara Town Council, Mbarara District, to examine how corruption hinders service delivery and to identify how limited community participation hinders service delivery. The study adopted a cross sectional research design with mixed research approach. The study used a sample of 199 respondents and simple random and purposive sampling were used to select respondents. Data collection was done using questionnaires and interviews and anaysed using descriptive statistics with the help of Statistical Package for Social Sciences and thematic analysis. The study concluded that insufficient funding is a major constraint to service delivery in Mbarara Town Council. Delays in fund disbursement and misaligned budget allocations further compromise project execution. Funding shortages limit recruitment of personnel and hinder development of essential infrastructure. Additionally, findings indicate that corruption is pervasive among council officials, undermining governance and public trust. Misuse of funds and prevalence of bribery negatively affect equity and efficiency in service delivery. Corruption contributes to incomplete or poorly executed projects, affecting overall service quality. Strengthening accountability mechanisms and promoting transparency are essential to enhance service delivery. The study concluded that minimal community involvement reduces the relevance and effectiveness of council projects. Consultation with residents is infrequent, and meetings are poorly attended, weakening communication channels. The study concluded that Mbarara Town Council and District Finance Office should prioritize timely and sufficient fund allocation by developing a clear disbursement schedule aligned with project timelines, ensuring funds reach departments when needed. Council planners and budget officers should conduct participatory budget planning with key stakeholders to align allocations with actual community needs, improving relevance and efficiency of resource use. Mbarara Town Council leadership should implement stringent internal controls and regular audits to detect and prevent misuse of funds, ensuring transparency in financial management. Procurement officers and regulatory authorities should enforce open and competitive bidding processes, reducing opportunities for bribery and favoritism in council projects.