In a bid to strengthen governance and collaboration within Uganda’s public sector, the CEO Summit Uganda, in partnership with the National Housing and Construction Company Limited (NHCCL), officially launched the Public Sector Chairpersons’ Forum. The new initiative, which brings together chairpersons and governance leaders from various public sector agencies, aims to foster collaboration, share best practices, and address common challenges facing public governance.
The launch event, held in Kampala, was officiated by Lucy Nakyobe, the Head of Public Service and Secretary to the Cabinet. During her keynote address, Ms. Nakyobe emphasized the importance of the initiative in creating a cohesive and strategic governance framework for the public sector.
“I am honored to be here as we embark on this significant journey. This forum marks the beginning of an initiative that will unite public sector chairpersons for a common cause—ensuring collaboration across government agencies for operational excellence,” she said.
Nakyobe also noted the success of similar forums, such as the Permanent Secretaries Forum, which has fostered improved governance and accountability.
“This forum is not only timely, but it is also a demonstration of the governance we need for operational excellence within the public sector. Our ability to work together is what will drive success, not just the strength of our individual mandates,” she added.
Enhancing Public Sector Governance
The Public Sector Chairpersons’ Forum is set to become a platform for dialogue among leaders, facilitating the exchange of insights and innovative solutions. By promoting collaboration between agencies, the forum seeks to address governance issues and enhance the overall effectiveness of the public sector.
The National Housing and Construction Company Limited (NHCCL) will lead the forum for the first year, with CEO Summit Uganda acting as the secretariat, ensuring smooth coordination and harmony within the initiative.
Stephen Mukasa, Managing Director of CEO Summit Uganda, spoke on the significance of the forum, expressing optimism that the collaboration would result in more accountable leadership in Uganda’s public sector.
“This forum has been long overdue. It’s time that the heads of parastatals and public agencies came together to ensure that their respective entities deliver as expected,” Mukasa stated.
Mukasa further highlighted the forum’s potential to empower public sector leaders, enabling them to drive positive change within their respective organizations and sectors. “Through this forum, we hope to foster accountability, promote strategic governance, and ensure that Uganda’s public sector continues to advance.”
Dr. Peter Kimbowa, the technical support lead for the forum, encouraged the leaders present to embrace the initiative, underscoring its role in Uganda’s socio-economic development. He called upon the chairpersons to lead the charge in tackling key governance challenges, fostering financial sustainability, and embracing digital transformation.
“As chairpersons, it is upon us to steer governance reforms, drive financial sustainability, and forge strategic partnerships. The success of Uganda’s parastatals is crucial for shaping our economic future and determining the quality of services provided to our citizens,” Dr. Kimbowa remarked.
Several government entities were represented at the launch by their respective board chairpersons, including Uganda National Airlines, Uganda Tourism Board (UTB), National Identification & Registration Authority (NIRA), Public Procurement and Disposal of Public Assets Authority (PPDA), and National Water and Sewerage Corporation (NWSC).
The forum will hold regular meetings to provide a structured platform for governance leaders to discuss emerging challenges and collaboratively explore solutions that can lead to enhanced service delivery. It will also serve as a hub for sharing resources, research, and insights to ensure that public sector governance aligns with Uganda’s development objectives.
The Public Sector Chairpersons’ Forum is expected to include leaders from government agencies, statutory bodies, and regulatory authorities across the country, all playing key roles in shaping Uganda’s governance landscape. Through this initiative, the forum aims to build a foundation for stronger public sector partnerships and deliver better services to citizens.
