As we get to the Christmas season, it is a common norm to fundraise at social gatherings i.e. Churches, where the highest bidder either as proposed or has the hard cash gets away with the cautioned item(s) as a 
contribution towards realization of an intended service or development project(s).
I have keenly been following the Masiro, (Kasubi Historical Sites) fundraising drive which so far has raised millions of shillings from a cross section of Kabaka loyalists, Parliamentarians and well wishers. Allow me refer these monies to non taxed public funds -call it direct funds for the intended service.
From the onset I should say this is a good signal for good intensions and if strategically positioned with across cutting policy and (by) law(s), it should be embraced by Ugandans, given that the Country to date funds her own budget at 80% with focus priority areas that might not be in position to sustain all her development agenda.
We have seen this successfully in American politics for example were finance muscle has been exhibited by candidates with support from open and accountable fundraising drives, which in the long run determines the candidate’s political fortunes.
These fundraising arrangements can be used as critical strategy to improve development and welfare. Imagine how many Ugandans would directly or indirectly, during and after be employed or benefit from this particular project once successfully completed given that Kasubi Tombs hold a strong historical position worldwide accredited by UNESCO.
However, given the fact that Uganda is the most corrupt Country in the region (EABI Report, 2013), I wonder how many citizens can follow-up or even ask for information on the projects progress given that the monies involved is public money.
The constitution of the republic of Uganda Article 17(d) and (
English: The Kasubi Tombs in Kampala, Uganda. Français : Les tombeaux des rois du Buganda à Kasubi, dans le district de Kampala, en Ouganda. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
i) mandates citizens the right to demand for accountability of funds meant for any project. Giving specific focus to fundraising, I haven’t come across any policy guidelines addressing the former perhaps I need to be corrected. For this to be successful, a need for a laid framework and stakeholder’s inclusiveness is vital.
Fundraising policy guidelines are therefore important to address the unanswered questions, but most off all shall further help harmonise such activities if we are to realize the steady development and accountable leadership we all yarn for.
I wish you all a Merry Christmas and a prosperous New year 2014.
Moses Karatunga is a Communications Specialist
