Govt embarks on defining national values to boost service delivery, social-economic transformation

We are drawing inspiration from the Constitution and incorporating societal values that promote unity, integrity, and progress

The government has initiated efforts to establish national values aimed at addressing moral decay, corruption, and fostering social-economic transformation.

This move is spearheaded by the Ministry of Information, Communications Technology, and National Guidance.

While inaugurating the National Taskforce on National Values at the Civil Service College in Jinja, the State Minister for ICT and National Guidance, Godfrey Kabyanga, emphasised the need for a unified set of values to define Ugandans and guide societal behaviour.

The initiative comes at a time when Uganda is grappling with challenges such as corruption, declining moral standards, and a need for improved service delivery.

Minister Kabyanga says by establishing national values, the government seeks to foster a sense of identity and accountability among citizens and public servants.

“The high rate of moral decay and corruption in our society has compelled us to reflect on who we are as Ugandans. It is time we adopt values that will shape us and guide our national development agenda,” said Kabyanga.

The taskforce comprises officials from various government ministries, departments, and agencies. It has been mandated to identify, document, and propose national values that will be upheld by all Ugandans.

Their findings and proposals will be reviewed and implemented as part of the government’s broader strategy to drive national development and social cohesion.

Jonah Jackson Bakalikwiira, the Assistant Commissioner in charge of National Guidance, stated that the team will align their efforts with the objectives outlined in the Constitution, as well as existing societal norms and practices.

“We are drawing inspiration from the Constitution and incorporating societal values that promote unity, integrity, and progress,” Bakalikwiira noted.

Kibedi Ismail, the Principal National Guidance Officer, affirmed the ministry's commitment to engaging all stakeholders, ensuring inclusivity in the development of these values.

Some of the members on this task force expressed skepticism about the government's willingness to effect their findings and proposals basing on the previous similar attempts which ended on paper but were not implemented.

However, Mr Kabyanga assured them that this time it is not business as usual

"We are giving you 45 working days, please work before the end of this financial year, and give us the report and see whether it will not be implemented" Kabyanga said

"The implementation of the National Values do not need a budget, under the Ministry of ICT and National guidance we have an hour at each radio station, nationwide, we shall use that government hour to disseminate the information" he assured the members allaying their fears.

The initiative comes at a time when Uganda is grappling with challenges such as corruption, declining moral standards, and a need for improved service delivery.

By establishing national values, the government seeks to foster a sense of identity and accountability among citizens and public servants.

This marks a significant step in redefining Uganda’s national identity and addressing critical social issues affecting the country.