MICHAEL N
More than 4,000 households in Ntungamo District have so far benefited from the government’s Parish Development Model (PDM), a flagship programme aimed at eradicating poverty and transitioning households into the money economy.
According to the Chief Administrative Officer of Ntungamo District, Kiza Fedelis, the district has registered significant progress since the programme was rolled out in the 2021/2022 financial year. He revealed that Ntungamo has received over UGX 46 billion under the initiative, supporting 129 Parish SACCOs across the district.
Kiza noted that approximately 40,000 households have been reached through the programme, with men accounting for about 18,000 beneficiaries and women 11,000, alongside youth and other community members. He expressed optimism that if funding per parish is increased from UGX 100 million to UGX 200 million annually, it would take only two more financial years for every household in the district to benefit from the initiative.
However, he emphasized that some community members have misunderstood the objectives of the Parish Development Model. He clarified that the funds disbursed to beneficiaries are not grants but revolving funds that must be repaid within the agreed period to enable other registered group members to benefit. This, he explained, ensures a continuous circulation of funds within parishes and promotes inclusive economic growth.
Kiza further highlighted that the Parish Development Model is built on seven pillars, including financial inclusion, production, storage, processing and marketing, infrastructure, and economic services. These pillars are designed to improve household incomes through value addition to agricultural products and strengthen socio-economic development by enhancing access to health services, road networks, and other essential services.
He urged beneficiaries and SACCO leaders to utilize the funds responsibly and for their intended purposes, stressing that proper management and timely repayment will enable more households to benefit from the programme.
Meanwhile, the Vice LC5 Chairperson of Ntungamo District and LC5 Councillor for Nyamunuka Town Council, Hajji Asuman Kigongo, commended the government for its continued efforts to uplift communities out of poverty. He noted that Nyamunuka Town Council has six parishes, each receiving UGX 100 million every financial year.
Kigongo disclosed that the town council has so far received UGX 1.2 billion under the programme, which has boosted production and supported income-generating activities as beneficiaries reinvest the funds into productive ventures.
In Rwahi Rwentobo Town Council, local leaders also acknowledged the positive impact of the Parish Development Model, noting improvements in household livelihoods and increased participation in organized savings and investment groups. They encouraged residents to embrace the programme and ensure accountability to sustain its long-term benefits.
