In a compelling presentation on the VUCA environment in Africa, Prof. Uketor Moti Gabriel from the University of Abuja, Nigeria, emphasized the critical need for institutions to be agile and resilient in order to achieve sustainable development.
He highlighted how adaptability is essential for the longevity and effectiveness of these institutions.
“If we build a resilient institution, we shall be able to achieve sustainable development,” he said.
Prof. Uketor delivered his remarks during the ongoing 43rd Round Table Conference and Annual General Meeting of the African Association for Public Administration and Management (AAPAM) at the Speke Resort Munyonyo in Kampala, November 27, 2024.
This four-day conference has drawn over 1,000 participants from various parts of Africa, focusing on the theme: “Agile and Resilient Public Administration for Sustainable Development in Africa”.
The gathering aims to discuss strategies for enhancing governance systems to tackle the continent’s social, economic, and environmental issues.
He also pointed out significant obstacles such as corruption, inflation, and poor governance that impede the sustainable development of institutions across Africa.
Prof. Gerald Kagambirwe Karyeija of the Uganda Management Institute (UMI) presented a paper on the topic of Building Agile and Resilient Electoral Commissions in Africa, focusing on the challenges and opportunities observed in Uganda. He emphasized to the audience the importance of citizens actively working to establish flexible and robust political institutions to ensure accountability from the Electoral Commission.
He stressed that the agility and resilience of Electoral Commissions are essential for the sustainability of democratic processes in Africa.
Karyeija emphasized the importance of creating risk mitigation strategies, which include developing contingency plans and performing regular risk assessments focused on cybersecurity, political interference, and logistical challenges.
He said they must prioritize transparency and accountability by implementing clear procedures, ensuring responsibility, and actively engaging with stakeholders.
He also called for enhanced adaptability by providing regular training and capacity-building programs for the staff of the Electoral Commission.
Beatrice Oling Adong, the Principal Assistant Secretary at the Jinja Ministry of Lands and Urban Development Zonal Office, emphasized the vital role of effective administrative strategies in crisis mitigation.
She referenced the Covid-19 pandemic and its management at Entebbe Regional Referral Hospital, noting that it posed significant challenges in terms of management.
He emphasized that the Covid-19 pandemic provided important lessons in hospital crisis management, underscoring the essential importance of preparedness, adaptability, and effective communication.
He noted that by implementing best practices, hospitals can greatly enhance their ability to respond to crises.
The Deputy Head of Public Service and Deputy Secretary to Cabinet, Dr. Mary Theopista Wenene, stated that Uganda has made significant advancements in enhancing different facets of health service delivery.
“We have established a number of policies and regulatory frameworks. We have very well-trained health workers; we constructed health facilities as well as enhancing the pay of health workers. This has promoted effectiveness and efficiency,” Wenene said.
