THE INFLUENCE OF ADMINISTRATIVE DECENTRALISATION ON SERVICE DELIVERY IN THREE SELECTED COUNTIES OF WESTERN EQUATORIA STATE, SOUTH SUDAN

This study assessed how administrative decentralization influences service delivery in Tambura, Yambio, and Mundri Counties of Western Equatoria State.A descriptive correlational design was used,combining quantitative data from structured questionnaires with qualitative insights from interviews and focus group discussions. From population of 260, a sample of 158 respondents per county was studied,including government officials, health personnel, community leaders, civil society actors, and residents. Statistical analysis using SPSS examined the strength of decentralization service delivery relationships,thematic analysis explored contextual factors. Regression results show uneven effects across counties: Yambio recorded significant positive contribution (B = 0.205, p = .018), Tambura showed a smaller but significant effect (B = 0.044, p = .048), and Mundri demonstrated a negative, non-significant relationship (B = 0.037, p = .513). Although decentralization can enhance accountability and community participation,its impact remains constrained by capacity gaps,limited resources, political interference, and unclear administrative mandates.