CUSP II aims at strengthening local civil society organisations’ impact on development. It will foster cooperation between state institutions and civil society organisations in planning, implementing and monitoring development process, thus supporting the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals in Uganda. Implemented by GIZ, the programme is co-funded by the European Union (EU) and the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) and works with the government of Uganda, including the NGO Bureau, the National Planning Authority and the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development.

Capacity of over 150 national and grassroot civil society organizations will be enhanced enabling them to participate in and engage effectively in development processes at local and national level. Associations of local CSOs, grassroots CSOs, NGOs representing women, youth or people with disabilities, as well as organizations promoting social accountability and service delivery will benefit among others.  

Nicolas Gonze, the Team Leader for Governance and Social Inclusion at the EU Delegation in Uganda says: “Civil society significantly contributes to the development of Uganda. To unleash their full potential, civil society organizations need to be responsive, competent and resilient. We are committed to support the development of their capacities across the country and strengthen cooperation between state institutions and civil society at national and local levels.”

David Löw, Deputy Head of Cooperation at the German Embassy Kampala added: “CUSP is seeking to harness the potential of civil society for Uganda’s development: Placing CSOs in a strong position to work towards their goals as well as fostering good and mutual working relations between CSOs and the government are key to the program. Through that, for example, we aim for improved service delivery, especially for the most vulnerable members of society.”

With funding from the EU and BMZ, the first phase of CUSP had a significant impact on civil society’s empowerment and engagement and improved service delivery. Notable results include:

•  A dialogue forum between state actors and CSOs regarding the implementation, monitoring and review of the Sustainable Development Goals was established.
•  CSO participation was promoted in development processes in 78 districts across the country.
• 1,635 CSO employees were trained on institutional development, strategic planning, management and resource mobilization.
• Strategic plans for over 62 CSOs were developed, and 79 capacity development plans were implemented.  

CUSP II is hinged on the theme: “Empowering citizens, leaving no one behind.” This underscores the importance of involving everyone and improving living conditions for all.

Tassilo von Droste, Head of CUSP programme at GIZ, highlights that “Participation in development processes and enjoyment of human rights by all is a pre-requisite for sustainable development. People whose voices are often not heard need to receive specific support so that they can weigh in on important decisions that affect their lives.”

The programme promotes citizens’ participation in the implementation of the National Development Plan III.