The Role of Local Institutions in Ensuring Poverty Reduction and Environmental Sustainability in Uganda's Natural Resource Decentralization

Abstract

"Uganda's decentralization program is often cited as one of the most successful decentralization programs. Research was conducted in forests, fisheries, and protected areas in Bundibugyo and Masindi districts in Uganda to test whether a higher degree of power transfers from central to local government resulted in increased poverty reduction and improved environmental sustainability outcomes. This research demonstrates that while Uganda's decentralization laws and policies are progressive on paper, local governments do not yet have sufficient autonomy or authority to effectively perform their roles. Administrative responsibilities have been transferred to local governments without the transfer of full fiscal autonomy and authority, particularly in the natural resources sector. The current decentralizations taking place in Uganda are promising but cannot yet be considered true democratic decentralization that can effectively deliver poverty reduction and environmental sustainability outcomes. This research also suggests that local institutions significantly affect the potential success of decentralization reforms, community benefits from natural resources, poverty reduction, and environmental sustainability."