Peter A. Ngwafu¹, Robert Dibie²

(1. Albany State University, USA; 2. Indiana University Kokomo, USA)

 

 

Abstract: This paper investigates the nature of business and government relations in Uganda. It also explores the extent to which the public sector uses public policy and other means to influence the private sector’s decision making and practices for the purpose of achieving economic development. The paper uses qualitative and quantitative data to provide detailed analysis of the important role of both sides of this relationship with respect to corporate social responsibility and government regulations in Uganda. It argues that the government of Uganda and its policies are crucial for the appropriate attainment of an effective business and government relationship in the country. The conceptual framework of this study is based on the new growth theory. The findings indicate that while there have been past weaknesses in the relationship between business and government in some industrial sectors due to inadequate enforcement of policies, the relationship in both sectors has improved over the past decade. In addition, government policies have not been able to effectively galvanize the private sector and NGOs to create a national system of technological innovation and economic transformation. The national government and the leaders of Uganda are still very reluctant to leave economic outcomes in the country entirely up to market forces. The paper recommends that national and appropriate collaboration between business and government could effectively impact technological development and economic growth in Uganda in the future.

 

 

Key words: business and government relations; economic growth; sustainable development; public interest;

industrial strategies; capacity building

 

JEL code: O