Assessing the effectiveness of computer aided mass valuation system of property rates administration at Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA)

Abstract

This study assessed the effectiveness of Computer Aided Mass Valuation System of property rates administration at Kampala Capital City Authority. The study was guided by four objectives which included examining the determinants of good property rates administration, establishing the challenges affecting effective use of Computer Aided Mass Valuation System of property rates at KCCA, suggesting strategies to be implemented to improve use of Computer Aided Mass Valuation System of property rates at KCCA and documenting lessons learnt from the automated property rates administration. The study adopted a cross-sectional research design and employed a qualitative research approach. A sample size of 20 respondents was used and data were collected through interviews using an interview guide. The study revealed that, having knowledge about the nature, size and registration status of the property plus where it’s located, having a dedicated and knowledgeable human resource, community awareness about property rates and laws or policies governing property rate administration were key determinants for good property rate administration. It was also revealed that the performance of CAMV system was relatively good since the system had increased revenue collections. The biggest challenge affecting effective use of CAMV system was limited human resources with skills and technical knowledge to host system. Suggested strategies included training the local Ugandans to have enough skills and technical knowledge to use, run and maintain the CAMV system, registering all the properties and increasing funding to procure modern equipment and install strong and reliable internet network. Sensitization and advocacy need to be stepped up as a driving force to push the Community members, cities, municipalities and towns to realize the benefits of dropping the traditional manual property rates systems for the computerized one and computer training and knowledge should become mandatory in any professional course as the world is fast becoming an information technology village.