Public service delivery plays a critical role in improving people’s quality of life, especially in developing countries. Despite having policies and systems in place, both South Africa and Uganda face ongoing challenges in delivering effective public services. These include corruption, weak institutional capacity, limited resources, and inequality. In Uganda, weak enforcement of socio-economic rights limits accountability. In South Africa, issues such as inefficiency and corruption reduce the impact of strong legal frameworks. These challenges prevent citizens from fully accessing essential services such as healthcare, education, and infrastructure.

A research study funded by the National Research Foundation (NRF) explored how a human rights-based approach (HRBA) can improve public service delivery by comparing South Africa and Uganda. The research highlights how aligning service delivery with human rights principles can strengthen accountability, fairness, and efficiency in government systems.

The aim of the study was to examine how adopting a human rights-based approach can improve public service delivery in South Africa and Uganda. It also sought to identify lessons that each country can learn from the other to strengthen governance and service provision.

To achieve these aims, the researchers used a qualitative desktop approach, analysing existing literature, including academic articles, government reports, and policy documents. A comparative framework was applied, focusing on decentralisation, public participation, intergovernmental relations, ethics, and human rights integration in both countries.

The key findings are as follows:

• South Africa has strong constitutional protections for socio-economic rights but struggles with implementation due to corruption and inequality.
• Uganda has made progress in decentralisation, allowing local governments to manage services, but faces challenges related to weak institutions and limited resources.
• Public participation exists in both countries but is often inconsistent and affected by limited capacity and transparency.
• Corruption and unethical leadership significantly weaken service delivery in both contexts.
• Strong legal frameworks, active civil society, and political commitment are essential for effective service delivery.

The researchers propose adopting a human rights-based approach to public service delivery. This approach focuses on key principles such as participation, accountability, transparency, non-discrimination, and empowerment. It encourages governments to design services that prioritise citizens’ rights and needs while strengthening monitoring and accountability systems.

The comparison shows that both countries have strengths that can support improved service delivery. South Africa’s strong legal framework can enhance accountability, while Uganda’s decentralised system allows for greater local responsiveness. However, both countries must address corruption, improve coordination across government levels, and strengthen public participation. A human rights-based approach provides a structured way to address these challenges by placing citizens at the centre of service delivery.

In conclusion, the research states that a human rights-based approach offers a practical pathway to improving public service delivery in both South Africa and Uganda. By aligning governance systems with human rights principles, governments can ensure more equitable, transparent, and effective services. Strengthening legal frameworks, promoting ethical leadership, and empowering citizens are essential steps towards building inclusive and responsive public service systems.