Ministry of Works Uganda unveils online tool to improve transparency in infrastructure projects

The e-IMT is expected to assist on timely gathering of project and contract information, enabling timely feedback and collect evidence among other functions. During the launch of the E-IMT and commissioning of the 4th Assurance Process, held at City Blue hotel in Kampala recently, the Minister of State Works, Dr. Peter Teko Lokeris, said Its  aimed at improving transparency and accountability in public infrastructure.

 “The online tool will enhance stability in accessing information which will facilitate participants through useful feedback to Government and help citizens understand government activities and built trust in government agencies and other stakeholders”, he said.

Lokeris said;  knowledge is crucial to development in the interest of both the government and citizens. “The online monitoring tool will help in monitoring the processes in capital projects by providing real time information to inform decision making,” Lokeris added.

He  called upon all stakeholders including government agencies, local government Administration among others, to embrace the tool and upload contract information into the online portal.

The Senior Regional Manager-Africa, CoST International, Gilbert Sendugwa, said  that from the survey that was done by CoST in 2017, the findings indicated that citizens don’t trust government especially in infrastructure projects due to partly because they don’t have information.

He said that when CoST works with Government, the gap of mistrust is reduced. Sendugwa added  that The E-IMT will enable public agencies to upload information on projects and update it any time and any interested party can access it to know the status and  progress among others. CoST – the Infrastructure Transparency Initiative, is the leading global initiative improving transparency and accountability in public infrastructure.

CoST works with government, industry and civil society to promote the disclosure, validation and interpretation of data from infrastructure projects. This helps to inform and empower citizens and enables them to hold decision-makers to account. CoST experience indicates that; Informed citizens and responsive public institutions help drive reforms that reduce mismanagement, inefficiency, corruption and the risks posed to the public from poor quality infrastructure.

CoST works globally with members spanning four continents. In addition to working with CoST members at the national level, CoST works internationally with key anti-corruption organizations to facilitate the global exchange of experience and knowledge on transparency and accountability in public infrastructure.