Effective Service Delivery Key to National Development: Hajji Yunus Kakande*

watchdoguganda.com

Mbale, Uganda – Hajji Yunus Kakande, Secretary to the Office of the President, emphasized the importance of effective service delivery as a cornerstone of economic growth, poverty reduction, and overall improvement in the quality of life for Ugandans. He made these remarks while officiating a 3-day capacity-building workshop for Resident District Commissioners (RDCs), Resident City Commissioners (RCCs), Deputy RDCs/RCCs, Assistant RDCs/RCCs, District Internal Security Officers (DISOs), and Regional Internal Security Officers (RISOs) from Bugisu and Bukedi subregions. The workshop, held at Wash and Wills Hotel in Mbale City, aims to enhance the leadership, supervision, and monitoring capabilities of the participants.

“As public servants, you play a critical role in ensuring that our citizens receive efficient, effective, and responsive services,” Hajji Kakande said, highlighting the participants' strategic roles in implementing government programs and addressing citizens' needs.

*Strengthening Government Presence at District Level*

Hajji Kakande reminded RDCs and DISOs that they are the government’s eyes and ears in their districts. He underscored their leadership and guidance in ensuring that development initiatives are effectively implemented. He urged them to collaborate with stakeholders, including local governments, civil society organizations, and the private sector, to monitor and support critical programs such as the Parish Development Model (PDM).

"You should also promote security and stability in your respective districts and work closely with security agencies to address any security threats that may arise," he added.

*Fighting Corruption and Building Infrastructure*

Hajji Kakande called on the commissioners to combat corruption and ensure the efficient use of government resources. He encouraged them to focus on infrastructure development, including roads, bridges, and other facilities crucial for economic growth. “To address the challenges facing your districts, you must be proactive, innovative, accountable, and transparent in all your work,” he said.

He also stressed the importance of effective communication to increase public awareness and ownership of government interventions, ensuring their success at the grassroots level.

*Mobilizing for NRM in 2026*

As Uganda approaches the 2026 general elections, Hajji Kakande urged the commissioners to rally support for President Yoweri Museveni and the National Resistance Movement (NRM). "The NRM has a proven track record of delivering on its promises. Let’s work together to ensure that our people are informed, engaged, and motivated to support the NRM in the upcoming elections,” he said.

Hajji Kakande highlighted security as a top priority, urging leaders to work closely with security agencies and communities to address root causes of insecurity. "The safety and well-being of Ugandans are paramount, and it is your collective responsibility to ensure citizens feel secure and protected," he stated.

He also raised concerns about environmental degradation, which has led to frequent landslides and loss of life and property in the region. He called for urgent adoption of sustainable practices to mitigate the effects of climate change.

Maj. Martha Asiimwe, Head of the RDC Secretariat, outlined the workshop's objectives, emphasizing the need to reorient participants to their core mandates of supervision, monitoring, and effective representation of the central government and the President.

“The workshop aims to equip RDCs and DISOs with appropriate skills and tools to enhance their operations in their respective areas of jurisdiction. It also ensures alignment with prioritized government programs and policies,” Maj. Asiimwe said.

Ms. Asumin Nasike, RCC for Mbale City and Bugisu regional whip, assured Hajji Kakande of the region's calm security situation. She thanked the Office of the President for its continuous guidance and praised President Museveni for reappointing Hajji Kakande as Secretary to the Office of the President.

"We appreciate the Minister for Presidency for closely monitoring us and ensuring we are up to the task,” she added.

The capacity-building workshop underscores the government’s commitment to empowering its representatives at the district level to deliver on their mandates effectively. By focusing on leadership, collaboration, and accountability, the workshop equips RDCs, RCCs, DISOs, and RISOs with the tools necessary to promote sustainable development, ensure security, and prepare for the 2026 elections. Hajji Kakande’s remarks set the tone for a proactive and results-oriented approach to governance, resonating with the overarching goals of the NRM government.