Uganda to utilize citizen-generated data for effective SDG implementation

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Uganda has been encouraged to actively use Citizen-Generated Data (CGD) as a crucial tool for promoting sustainable development and enhancing community-led governance.

Linda Asaba from the United Nations Association of Uganda (UNAU) emphasized this need during a high-level workshop held on Thursday at the Emerald Hotel in Kampala. 

She noted that, as Uganda strives to accelerate the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), CGD can play a significant role.

The United Nations defines CGD as information produced by individuals or organizations to monitor, advocate for, or drive change on issues that directly impact their lives.

Asaba stated, “We all know that the Sustainable Development Goals, launched in 2015, will conclude in 2030, giving us only five more years to work toward their achievement. We need to create a greater impact in alignment with government efforts while engaging local leaders and grassroots communities.”

She added that CGD has become an essential tool for speeding up the implementation of the SDGs in Uganda.

“We have realized that many people are already collecting citizen-generated data but may not recognize it as such. Many of us engage in citizen-generated data without properly labeling it. We expect this process to continue, especially as our country begins to publish Voluntary Local Review (VLR) reports,” she continued.

During the event, Asaba urged local leaders to build trust with the communities they serve to ensure the credibility of the data generated. 

She emphasized, “If the community trusts you, they will be more willing to share their concerns. Building this trust is critical.”

Marie Hilda Nanyanzi, Senior Program Officer at Twaweza—a regional NGO operating in Tanzania, Kenya, and Uganda—called on leaders to encourage citizens to critically analyze their real issues so they can hold their leaders accountable for any gaps in service delivery. 

She advocated for evidence-based decision-making and expressed concern over the limited use of available research. Although extensive information is produced and readily accessible on their website, much of it remains underutilized, she said.

"It is free for anyone to use. Unfortunately, we find that much of our data is mostly utilized by Western countries and universities in the UK and the US," she stated. 

Richard Tinkasiimire Baguma, Secretary-General of UNAU, emphasized that data generated at the local level reflects what occurs at the national level. 

"Therefore, we should not disregard citizen-generated data," he remarked.

Judith Nansereko from the Uganda Bureau of Statistics (UBOS) led a technical session on how CGD complements official data and supports Voluntary National Reviews (VNRs).

“For example, when CGD is utilized in hospitals, it can help monitor progress on SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being,” she explained, highlighting how CGD fosters collaboration and citizen participation in governance.