COMMUNITY PARTICIPATION AND ROAD SERVICE DELIVERY IN WAKISO DISTRICT: A CASE OF THREE LOWER LOCAL GOVERNMENTS

Abstract

The study analysed the contribution of Community Participation to Road Service Delivery in Wakiso District Local Government, with specific focus on three lower local governments in the district. The specific objectives targeted for the study included: analyse the contribution of community participation in project planning to road service delivery in Wakiso District Local Government; to establish the contribution of community participation to the implementation establish the contribution of community participation to the implementation of road construction projects in Wakiso District Local Government and; to establish the contribution of community participation to the maintenance of rural access roads in Wakiso District Local Government. A descriptive case study design was used, supported by both qualitative and quantitative approaches. An accessible population of 179 was identified from which a sample of 123 was obtained. A response rate of (72 %) was obtained. Results showed a positive relationship between; community participation in project planning and road service delivery (R=.307**); community participation in project implementation and road service delivery (R=.710**) and; community participation in maintenance and road service delivery (R=.779**).. Basing on the study findings, it was thus concluded that; a district development plan and budget are key to better access to road networks by the local people; social gatherings, workshops and conferences can be effective means of local mobilization. The study thus recommended that; there is need to conduct more consultative and feedback meetings and externally lobby for funds. Further, there is need to create a task force to oversee awareness programs, better remunerations and address human resource gaps. Finally, it is essential that Wakiso district local government pays attention to sensitisation of local politicians, reward locals to maintain roads, formulate road ordinances and lobby for more funding.