Digital governance and transparency in Namayingo district local government, Uganda.

Abstract

This study examined the impact of digital governance on transparency in Namayingo District Local Government, Uganda. Specifically, the study sought to: (i) establish the effect of technology on transparency, (ii) assess the impact of interaction on transparency, and (iii) determine the effect of government on transparency. The research was underpinned by the Task– Technology Fit (TTF) Theory proposed by Goodhue and Thompson (1995), which posits that technology enhances performance when its capabilities align with the tasks users are required to perform. A cross-sectional research design and quantitative approach were adopted, targeting a population of 45 employees, from which a sample of 40 respondents was drawn using Krejcie and Morgan’s (1970) sampling table. Data were collected using structured, close-ended questionnaires based on a five-point Likert scale and analysed using SPSS version 20, generating descriptive statistics, reliability and validity measures, as well as correlation and regression outputs. The results revealed that technology accounted for 53.4% of the variance in transparency (Adj. R² = 0.534, p < 0.01), interaction explained 71.8% (Adj. R² = 0.718, p < 0.01), and government-related factors accounted for 68.9% (Adj. R² = 0.689, p < 0.01). These findings indicate that all three dimensions technology, interaction, and government have a significant and positive effect on transparency in local government operations. The study’s significance lies in its contribution to the growing body of empirical evidence on how digital governance mechanisms can strengthen transparency in local government contexts, particularly in resource-constrained settings. It provides actionable insights for policymakers, administrators, and development partners on the adoption of technological systems that are both functional and interactive, thereby fostering citizen participation in decision-making, enhancing accountability and reducing opportunities for data manipulation and misuse of resources. Based on these findings, it is recommended that Namayingo District Local Government invests in advanced and interactive technological platforms that promote visibility, traceability, and inclusiveness in governance processes, ultimately improving public trust and service delivery.