The Ministry of Local Government has handed over equipment to Masaka City’s two divisions of Kimanya-Kabonera and Nyendo-Mukungwe during the official launch of the Simplified Computerized Accounting and Reporting Tool (SCART).
SCART is a web based financial management system designed to support lower local governments and service delivery units, including schools and health centres, to improve financial reporting, accountability and monitoring
In Masaka City, Kiyumba Health Centre Iv is already using the system.
Ministry officials said the training of division staff and provision of the necessary equipment will make it easier for the city to monitor and adopt the system.
Speaking on behalf of the Permanent Secretary Mr. Ben Kumumanya, Silver Tindizirarira Assiatant Commisioner District Ispection said that SCART would promote standardised budgeting and reporting processes across lower local governments.
He, however, emphasised that technology alone cannot guarantee effective accountability, noting that patriotism and commitment among public servants remain important in ensuring the system achieves its intended purpose.
The Deputy Mayor of Masaka City, Ms Florence Nabunya, welcomed the new system, saying it would ease the work of the Finance Department in monitoring expenditure and strengthening accountability.
She appealed to the Ministry to continue providing guidance and supervision to support the city in effectively implementing SCART.
Furthermore, the Masaka City Town Clerk, Hajji Ssebadduka Authman, said the city was ready to embrace the new system as part of efforts to improve service delivery. He said that the SCART tool would also help bridge the gap between the City and the service delivery points that are located far from the city centre.
“Some of these costing centres, such as health centres and schools, are at a distance from the City, so this system will help us keep track of what is happening there,” Hajji Ssebadduka said.
The equipment handed over is expected to support division staff in using the system and strengthen financial management and reporting at the lower local government level.
The launch happened at Masaka City Offcies and was attended by the Masaka City Leadership, the staff of the two Divisions, the Ministry of Local Government Staff, a representative from Accountant Generals Office and MILEY Consultant firm who will be training the division staff on how to use the SCART system.
