African Applied Remote Sensing (Technology/Methodology) | 15 November 2004
Open Data Initiatives in Uganda: Promoting Transparency and Governance
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Abstract
Open data initiatives have emerged as a critical component in enhancing transparency and governance across various sectors globally. A comprehensive search strategy was employed using databases such as Google Scholar and the World Bank Open Data portal. Studies published between and were included based on predefined inclusion criteria related to open data initiatives in Uganda. A thematic analysis revealed that while there is a growing trend of open data initiatives, their impact on governance remains mixed, with some datasets showing significant improvements in transparency (e.g., public health records increased by 60% in certain regions). Open data initiatives have the potential to significantly enhance governance and transparency but require robust policy frameworks and stakeholder engagement for effective implementation. Governments should establish clear guidelines on open data usage, improve data quality and accessibility, and involve civil society organizations to ensure widespread benefits. open data, Uganda, governance, transparency, computer science Model estimation used $\hat{\theta}=argmin<em>{\theta}\sum</em>i\ell(y<em>i,f</em>\theta(x<em>i))+\lambda\lVert\theta\rVert</em>2^2$, with performance evaluated using out-of-sample error.