An examination of the role of non-governmental organisations in the democratization process of Uganda 2005-2017: A case study of Africa Leadership Institute.

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine the role of NGOs in the democratisation process of Uganda 2005-2017. Descriptive survey method was used to attain the objective of the study. The study was conducted by using the Africa Leadership Institute as a case study. Respondents were executives of NGOs, government officials and representatives of donor agencies. Respondents were selected through purposive sampling. Questionnaires, interviews and document review techniques were employed. The statistical tools used to analyze data were percentage, tables, graphs and charts. The results have revealed that the role of NGOs in the democratisation process of Uganda was a recent development where NGOs have spent considerable time in service delivery activities. As far as the contributions of NGOs in the area are concerned, it is insignificant. NGOs have faced many challenges many of which arise from government. The NGO-state relation in the area in Uganda was not smooth for various reasons. There were also instances where NGOs were engaged beyond their mandate especially in the political activities. The government of NRM has enacted NGO Act in 2006, which governs NGOs in Uganda. Its immediate impact was negative while in the long term its effect seems to be yielding positive results.