Effectiveness of Policy Advocacy Communication Strategy for Transparent Accountability and Governance in Public Health in Uganda and Africa
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School of Education, Kyambogo University, Kampala, Uganda
Popul. Med. 2026;8(Supplement Supplement 1):
ABSTRACT
ABSTRACT:
Introduction/
BACKGROUND:
Transparent accountability and governance in public health remain critical for achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in Africa. In Uganda, persistent challenges in health service delivery, resource allocation, and policy implementation underscore the need for effective policy advocacy communication strategies. Public-Private-Civic Partnerships (PPCPs) have emerged as vital mechanisms to strengthen transparency, enhance citizen engagement, and improve governance outcomes. Digital readiness in Uganda, with approximately 65% mobile penetration and 48% internet access (UBOS, 2024), offers new opportunities to amplify advocacy and information dissemination. Research Question: How effective are policy advocacy communication strategies in promoting transparent accountability and governance in Uganda’s public health sector? Objectives to: (1) Assess the reach and impact of PPCPs in public health policy advocacy. (2) Evaluate digital platforms’ role in promoting transparent governance. (2) Identify gaps, lessons learned, and best practices for scalable advocacy strategies.
METHODS:
A systematic literature review (SLR) combined with policy and document analysis was employed. North-South-South partnerships were examined to contextualize Uganda within global health governance frameworks. Information Diffusion Theory of Change guided analysis of communication pathways influencing transparency. Key indicators included PPCP engagement rates, policy adoption percentages, and citizen awareness metrics.
RESULTS:
PPCPs facilitated policy engagement with over 72% of local health districts reporting participatory planning. Digital campaigns increased citizen feedback submissions by 58%, while 41% of advocacy recommendations informed policy revisions. Gaps included limited rural digital access (32%) and inconsistent inter-sectorial coordination.
CONCLUSIONS:
Policy advocacy strategies, especially those leveraging PPCPs and digital platforms, enhance transparent accountability in Uganda. Recommendation: Strengthening digital infrastructure, improving inclusive north-south-south collaborations, and institutionalizing feedback mechanisms can optimize outcomes