USAID Uganda Supports Technology Expo to Boost Citizen Participation in Governance

May 21, 2011

USAID Uganda Supports Technology Expo to Boost Citizen Participation in Governance

The U.S. Government, through the U.S. Agency for International Development, and its partners, the National Democratic Institute and the International Republican Institute, launched the Technology for Social Accountability exposition to promote the benefits of citizen participation in good governance.

The May 21 expo at Kampala Serena Hotel was designed to democratize access to information and empower civil society to use technology for better delivery of services and to hold government officials accountable.  The speakers focused on four interlinking themes: “Emerging Good Governance Applications,” “Civic Education and Organizing through Technology,” “Citizen Participation through Mobile Technology,” and “Technology's Impact on Journalism.”

Andrew Colburn, USAID Democracy and Governance Officer, said, “We have already seen how Ugandans are stepping forward and taking advantage of new technologies to enhance transparency in the elections.  This exposition builds on the need for continued innovative solutions and facilitates discussion on how best to use them to increase citizens' participation in the democratic process.”

The event attracted social activists, civic groups, political leaders, government officials, development partners and journalists. Participants interacted with exhibitors to discuss new technologies and approaches that promote transparency in legislative functions and processes, including monitoring elections. They learned about budget making and policy processes; advancements in social media; and strengthening participation in government programs.

The overall goal of the expo was to gain from experts the knowledge and insight needed to effectively determine and procure appropriate tools and techniques to advance multi-party democracy in Uganda.

For more information about Technology for Social Accountability, visit www.tsa-expo.com.

For additional information, please contact:
Nanyonga Dorothy, Information Assistant, U.S. Mission Uganda
Tel: +256-414-250-314x6104 Cell: +077222-14-12, 0784846334
Email:  NanyongaDx@state.gov