Citizens for the first time view their districts' budget

USAID's Government Accountability Improves Trust (GAIT) has for the first time given citizens in the target districts the opportunity to view their districts' budget and pose questions to their representatives. They also expressed their concerns and shared their opinions and ideas about local government administration.

The aim of the program is to increase the capacity of civil society organizations to advocate for the interests of citizens to local government, increase local government responsiveness to citizens, and improve governance, transparency, and accountability at the local level. USAID provided technical assistance to over 15 civic unions and worked with ten District Assemblies to organize public budget hearings.

In four districts, 692 people participated in meetings that discussed citizens' access to quality basic services and resources. The participants questioned electricity, water, and telephone companies about corruption, inadequate services, and rates. They also provided suggestions as to how the utility service providers might improve their performance. As a result of these fora, District Assembly officials are more open and willing to dialogue with members of civil society. The officials are also willing to consider the legitimate concerns raised by civil society and factor these issues in the decision-making process.