The Policy Digest

Parliamentary Monitoring and Democracy in the Digital Age.

In this episode of the Policy Digest, we discuss how Digital technology has evolved over the ages and so has parliamentary monitoring. This has created vast opportunities and challenges. Building reachable digital bridges between millions of unreached last-mile citizens and their parliaments has become considerably more possible now that over half a billion Africans have access to the internet.
As we reconfigure the idea of open parliaments in Africa, PMOs are in a unique position to convert this possibility into a reality with hundreds of emerging digital technologies.
 
Guests:
Dr. Sarah Bireete - ED, Centre for Constitutional Governance
Daniel Chigudu -Magamba Network - Zimbabwe
Tassilo von Droste - The Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit
Moderator:
Dr. Martin Kizito

The open parliament index as a vital tool for advancing/ enabling the concept of open parliaments in Sub-Saharan Africa.

In this episode of the Policy Digest, we discuss how the Open Parliament Index (OPI) remains one of the many key strategies to achieve the institutionalisation of performance measurement that will engender and promote more open, accountable, and participatory parliaments.
The Parliamentary Network Africa (PNAfrica), under the auspices of the Africa Parliamentary Monitoring Organizations Network (APMON), launched the maiden edition of the Africa Open Parliament Index (OPI) in July 2022, an effort that is key to enhancing parliamentary openness.
There is a need to engage different PMOs and roll out OPI at the national, regional, and continent level to identify and strengthen systemic challenges to achieving parliamentary openness and to co-create reforms that will strengthen the capacity of parliaments to enhance their openness.
 
Guests:
Sammy Obeng - Parliamentary Network- Africa- Ghana
Wamere Gitungo - Mzalendo Trust- Kenya
Dr. Gerald Wanzala Werikhe - Research and Governance Expert
Moderator:
Kayonga Christopher - Open Parly Ug

The Nature of the Parish Development Model Information System

In this episode of the Policy Digest, we delve into the fascinating realm of Parish Development Models (PDM) and how Information Systems are revolutionizing their effectiveness. Join us as we explore the intricate intersection of technology and community development within parishes.
Guests:
Julius Kapwepwe - Parish Development Model Secretariat 
Peter Ogule - Ministry of ICT and National Guidance
Moderator:
Joseph Tahinduka - Programme Associate at CEPA

Remembering Hon Cecilia Ogwal: A Mosaic of Tributes and Memories

In this episode of the Policy Digest, we discuss and educate listeners on the life and accomplishments of Late Hon Cecilia Ogwal, offering a comprehensive overview of her political journey and contributions.
Guests:
Fred Ongom - Biological Scientist, Emeritus President - Northern Uganda Debate Society
Elizabeth Ashley Aceng - Auditor PwC Uganda
Moderator:
Joseph Tahinduka - Programme Associate at CEPA

Use of Boycott as a Means of Holding Governments to Account

In the episode of the Policy Digest, we delve into the purpose and effectiveness of boycotts as a political strategy, exploring their impact on governance and accountability.
Guests:
Hon Frank Kabuye - Member of Parliament representing Kassanda County South
Augustine Otuka - Private Secretary to the President
Moderator:
Joseph Tahinduka - Programme Associate at CEPA

Analyzing the Performance of the Parish Development Model in relation to the SDGs

Welcome to the Policy Digest. In this episode, we dissect the Auditor General's concerns, analyse the implications for public sector performance, and discuss potential strategies for improvement. Join us as we unravel the intricacies of this critical aspect of governance and accountability.
Guest:
Onesimus Kansiime - Knowledge Management Specialist at the SDGs Secretariat within the Office of the Prime Minister
Moderator:
Joseph Tahinduka - Programme Associate at CEPA