Data Science and Statistics Collaboration with Uganda Revenue Authority (URA)
Background & Context
The Public Financial Resource Centre (PFRC) provided technical assistance to the Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) to strengthen data governance. The intervention improved data management and quality across the tax data lifecycle, supporting URA’s transition to a more data-centric organisation and, over time, contributing to increased domestic revenue mobilisation in Uganda; critical for maintaining macroeconomic stability.
The support complemented a wider package of UK assistance on tax issues, including HMRC’s long-standing partnership with URA and TaxDev support to the Tax Policy Department (TPD).
Key Counterparts
- Uganda Revenue Authority
- Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO)
Objective
The objective of the intervention was to strengthen the Uganda Revenue Authority’s (URA) data governance and management systems by addressing identified gaps in frameworks and practices.
Approach & Scope of Support
PFRC delivered the intervention through an embedded and collaborative delivery model, combining practical coaching, applied training sessions, and the development of operational tools and guidance materials.
The scope of support included:
- Revising the Data Governance and Data Quality Measurement Framework to include enterprise data standards, a data catalogue, a data dictionary, process maps, and other relevant data governance and management documentation.
- Developing training plans and materials for the URA Tax Academy.
- Developing concept notes for new workstreams.
The intervention was delivered in close coordination with URA counterparts, with an emphasis on practical application, knowledge transfer, and alignment with existing institutional processes and priorities.
Outcomes
The intervention contributed to
- Strengthened governance structure: A comprehensive Data Governance Framework and streamlined policies established clear rules, roles, and accountability across the organisation.
- Enhanced staff capacity: A full e-learning curriculum and learning materials build internal capability for sustained data governance.
- Improved data quality management: Data quality analysis and an automated dashboard enable real-time monitoring and informed decision-making.
- Better data visibility and control: Data catalogue and lineage documentation strengthen transparency and management of key data assets.
- Clear pathway for sustainability: A 5-year implementation roadmap provides a structured plan to scale and institutionalise data governance.
URA now has the frameworks, tools, skills, and roadmap required to operationalise and sustain data governance independently.