Over 100 Kwania civil servants, leaders trained in digital transformation

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KWANIA - Over 100 civil servants, politicians, and community leaders in Kwania district have completed a digital skills training aimed at bolstering service delivery, ideological awareness and socio-economic progress.

Hosted by the ICT and National Guidance ministry, the two-day workshop, themed: Enhancing Ideological Consciousness in Local Government, equipped participants from 11 sub-counties, including three town councils, with tools to navigate the digital age and address governance challenges.

The training at the Kwania district headquarters in Wipolo, Ikwera ward, emphasised bridging the gap between government programmes and grassroots needs. John Oyambi, an official from the Ministry of ICT, stressed the urgency of responsible citizenship: We must move beyond outdated practices. Gone are the days when civil servants could neglect their duties or, worse, abuse their positions. Leaders must campaign on issues, not propaganda, and serve with integrity.

Member of Parliament Tony Ayo, also chairperson of the Parliamentary ICT committee, highlighted systemic failures in implementing government poverty-alleviation programmes.

Hon. Tony Ayo, Chairperson Parliamentary Committee on ICT and National Guidance. (Photo by Solomon Okabo)

“Money allocated for initiatives like Etandikwa and Emyooga often disappears. Citizens demand accountability, not empty promises. This training is critical to shift mindsets and ensure programmes like the Parish Development Model (PDM) deliver results,” he said.

Kwania’s district vice-chairperson, Geoffrey Eling Owera, praised the ministry for bypassing bureaucratic inertia to reach frontline workers.

“Too many ministries hoard resources in Kampala while local governments struggle. Your presence here shows a commitment to changing mindsets. We need this kind of engagement to rebuild trust in governance,” he said.

Moving toward accountability

Local leaders hailed the training as a turning point. Patrick Onyum Okwang, the LC3 chairperson of Atongtidi sub-county, said it aligned with his role in monitoring government projects.

“The Local Government Act mandates us to oversee programmes and advocate for community needs. This training sharpens our skills to track budgets like PDM and mobilise locals effectively,” he said.

Annet Atim of Aduku sub-county urged the ministry to provide laptops for continued learning.

“Digital transformation isn’t just for officials; it must reach the people. Extend this training to villages so everyone can benefit,” she said.