2024 Award "Best Practice in Citizen Participation"

The Weyonje mobile application revolutionizes pit-emptying services in Kampala, Uganda, addressing challenges in informal settlements through technology and community involvement. Kampala, a lively city with diverse demographics and significant socioeconomic disparities, struggles with sanitation issues, particularly in informal settlements where over 60% of the population resides. The initiative, developed out of a need for improved pit-emptying services and regulatory oversight for service providers, engages key stakeholders from governmental bodies, communities, service providers, and regulatory authorities.

The application's development was marked by thorough planning, stakeholder engagement, and user-centric design. Government support, community insights, technical expertise, and legal compliance shape its implementation. Training sessions were done to ensure efficient usage among stakeholders, promoting transparency and trust. The communication strategies that were employed included community engagements, awareness campaigns, and feedback mechanisms, driving widespread adoption and participation.

The innovation lies in its user-centric design and community-driven approach. User-friendly interfaces, clear instructions, and community engagement make it accessible and effective. Through digital inclusion, even residents without smartphones are included, utilizing Village Health Teams to request services on their behalf as well as incorporating the local language "Luganda" addresses barriers among service providers, ensuring equitable access.

Significant achievements have been achieved including drastically reduced response times, improved collection efficiency, increased income for service providers, job completion rates, proper waste disposal, and efficient data management. The app's success highlights the transformative power of technology in enhancing service delivery and community resilience.

• https://www.kcca.go.ug/cwis (External link)