‘Writing budgets for meetings and teas?’: a multitheoretical analysis of intragovernmental coordination for multisectoral action for health in Uganda
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Date
2022
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
BMJ Global Health
Abstract
Introduction Coordination across policy domains and among government agencies is considered critical for
addressing complex challenges such as inequities, urbanisation and climate change. However, the factors
influencing coordination among government entities in low-income and middle-income countries are not well
known. Although theory building is well suited to explain complex social phenomena, theory-based health policy and systems studies are limited. This paper examined the factors influencing coordination among government entities at the central government level in Uganda. Methods This theory-based case study used a qualitative approach. Primary data were collected through 26 national-level key informant interviews supplemented with a review of 6 national strategic and policy documents.
Data were analysed abductively using a multi theoretical framework combining the transaction cost economics
theory, principal–agent theory, resource dependence theory and political economy perspective. Results Complex and dynamic interactions among different factors, both internal and external to the government, were found. Interdependencies, coordination
costs, non-aligned interests, and institutional and ideational aspects were crucial factors. The power dynamics within the bureaucratic structures and the agency of the coordinated entities influence the effectiveness of coordination efforts.
Description
Keywords
health, Uganda, multisectoral action
Citation
Ssennyonjo A, Ssengooba F, Criel B, et al. ‘Writing budgets for meetings and teas?’: a multitheoretical analysis of intragovernmental coordination for multisectoral action for health in Uganda. BMJ Global Health 2022;7:e007990. doi:10.1136/ bmjgh-2021-007990