DETERMINANTS OF PUBLIC PARTICIPATION IN PUBLIC BUDGETING AMONG SUB-SAHARAN COUNTRIES: THE INFLUENCE OF TRANSPARENCY AND OVERSIGHT INSTITUTIONS

Abstract

This study examines budget transparency in Sub-Saharan Africa, focusing on legislative and audit oversight institutions and the availability of various budget documents. Public budget transparency is critical to good governance: it refers to the extent to which governments provide comprehensive, timely, and understandable information on public resource allocation. Despite its importance, transparency remains low in most Sub-Saharan African countries, hindering public accountability. The research employs a quantitative longitudinal panel design to analyze the relationships between institutional and procedural factors influencing budget transparency in 14 countries from 2006 to 2023. The regression analysis reveals that institutional strength, document disclosure, and citizen engagement significantly impact fiscal openness. The study recommends that budget transparency can be achieved through consistent public disclosure, legislative frameworks, and active citizen involvement. It also suggests strengthening disclosure frameworks and adapting the research framework for use in government scorecards and transparency reforms. Ultimately, improving budget transparency in the region requires a multi-faceted approach, including institutional strengthening, proactive information sharing, inclusive participation, and technological innovation. The study contributes to understanding budget transparency as both a theoretical concept and practical governance tool shaped by institutional design and civic engagement

Keywords: Budget Transparency; Legislative Oversight; Audit Oversight; Fiscal Governance; Open Budget Survey.