By Kabuye Ronald
Local leaders in Kampala have been urged to integrate Citizen-Generated Data (CGD) into planning, decision-making, and implementation of programs that benefit their communities and align with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Speaking at a workshop organized by the United Nations Association of Uganda (UNAU) under the theme “From Voices to Action: Citizen-Generated Data and the SDGs – Empowering Local Leaders in Kampala’s Divisions to Harness Community Data for Sustainable Development”, UNAU Secretary General Baguma Tinkasimiire Richard emphasized the critical role of data in achieving sustainable development.
“There is a confluence of issues that make it important to equip grassroots leaders with an understanding and appreciation of data,” said Baguma. “All development plans and budgets begin at the village level. These grassroots plans inform parish, sub-county, and district plans, eventually feeding into the National Development Plan. For these plans to be realistic and achievable, they must be data-informed.”
Baguma further highlighted the value of non-official data sources, especially Citizen-Generated Data, which often captures rich, contextual insights.
“Not all useful data comes from official sources. Citizen-Generated Data, particularly qualitative in nature, reflects lived experiences and local realities that can’t always be captured by formal consultants. This is why we’ve brought local leaders together to deepen their understanding of data usage.”
Marie Nanyanzi, Senior Programs Officer at Twaweza East Africa, called on leaders to proactively collect data from their communities while also educating citizens on issues like corruption and bribery, which hinder development. She encouraged leaders to use media platforms to amplify important messages and promote civic engagement.
Onesmus Katusiime from the SDG Secretariat in the Office of the Prime Minister underscored the role of local data in accelerating SDG implementation.
“While Uganda has integrated the SDGs into national and local plans, a significant gap remains between national targets and local realities,” he noted. “Community-driven data helps bridge this gap by capturing citizens’ voices and lived experiences.”
He pointed out that many urban challenges in Kampala’s divisions such as poverty, unemployment, informal settlements, and waste management, are not fully captured by traditional data systems.
“Local data ensures a completer and more accurate national SDG picture,” said Katusiime.
He further outlined how CGD enhances SDG action:
- Monitoring and accountability: Through citizen feedback that tracks service delivery and performance.
- Evidence for advocacy: Strengthens the case for change using real-life community data.
- Informed planning: Enables data-driven prioritization of resources.
Katusiime urged local leaders to:
- Integrate CGD into their plans, budgets, and council meetings,
- Collaborate with CSOs, youth groups, and communities,
- Build capacity by training staff and funding data collection,
- Close the feedback loop by sharing outcomes with citizens whose data informs decisions.
Local leaders expressed appreciation for the training. Bamulaki Kiiza Sylvia, Direct Councillor for Nakasero I in Kampala Central Division, and Kagwa Deo, Councillor for Lubaga Urban Division, both praised UNAU for enhancing their capacity to work with CGD.
“Without accurate data, you cannot plan effectively for your country or community,” said Kagwa. “Agencies like UBOS sometimes fail to capture the full picture, especially at the grassroots. CGD provides that missing link by highlighting real community needs.”
