Inclusive Management Decision-Making for the Effective Governance of Urban Central Markets: A Case Study of Kabale and Mbarara Central Markets – Southwestern Uganda

Abstract

This study investigates the levels of stakeholder participation in management decision-making for the effective management of Kabale and Mbarara Central Markets in Uganda. Management decision-making is crucial for effective governance. Involving stakeholders ensures reliable, inclusive decisions. Structured decision management is essential for urban markets, vital for socio-economic development in towns, especially in developing countries like Uganda. Despite the benefits of participatory management, clear and transparent guidelines between vendors and market authorities are often lacking. Authorities frequently made unilateral decisions on market sales, redevelopment, and operations without involving key stakeholders. Using a descriptive case study design, data were collected through interviews and questionnaires. Results indicated that while stakeholder participation was more consolidated in implementation activities, problem rationalization and ensuring fair representation in boundary condition settings still had wide gaps. Although some collaborative initiatives were seen, the decision-making process was primarily top-down and resulted in frustration and resistance from stakeholders where inappropriate. This exclusionary strategy diminishes confidence between market authorities and vendors, hence compromising the efficacy of governance frameworks. Transitioning to a more participatory decision-making paradigm is essential for enhancing transparency, mitigating disputes, and ensuring that policies address the requirements of all market stakeholders. These findings highlight an urgent call for stakeholder inclusion in market governance to foster transparency, equity, and sustainable innovation. Tackling these challenges is key to the successful integration of vendors in management and requires structured vendor representation in decision-making forums and participatory policy frameworks to improve market governance effectiveness and boost stakeholder satisfaction. The study enhances participatory urban governance literature and provides insights for policymakers and planners to improve stakeholder engagement in urban market management.