NELSON K
The Principal Community Development Officer of Rukungiri District, Mrs. Twesiime Charline, has raised concerns over rumors and allegations circulating among some committee members of disabled groups, accusing her of misappropriating their funds. She strongly refuted the claims, urging for accountability, cooperation, and unity among persons with disabilities to help uplift their lives and overcome poverty.
This occurred on Monday afternoon during the handover of government support funds under the Special Enterprise Grant for Older Persons (SEGO) program. The ceremony, which included a sensitization session for disabled groups, was held at the Rukungiri District Production Offices.
Ten disabled groups from across Rukungiri District received financial support, each group receiving UGX 4 million directly into their registered group accounts.
While handing over the funds, Mrs. Twesiime emphasized the importance of using the money to start profitable projects that can raise household incomes, support children’s education, and fight poverty. She also encouraged the groups to prioritize proper record-keeping to ensure transparency and clear accountability.
She called for unity among disabled persons in their respective communities and encouraged them to support one another to foster inclusion and dignity. Mrs. Twesiime also reminded parents to register their children for National IDs to ensure access to government services.
Twesiime criticized certain committee members for spreading false rumors about district officials, alleging that they receive bribes from the support funds. She particularly referenced incidents in Bwambara, where it was falsely claimed she was given UGX 1 million. She clarified that the support is sent directly to group accounts, and that it is some committee members who exploit their positions to solicit money from fellow members using officials’ names.
The Rukungiri District Councilor for People with Disabilities, Mr. Oryoroba James, told journalists that the brief sensitization session was organized to guide beneficiaries on how to effectively utilize the government funds. He confirmed that ten groups received UGX 4 million each, while one group received UGX 5 million—bringing the total to UGX 41 million.
He stated that each group already has a specific project and committed to ensuring proper accountability in managing the projects to improve their livelihoods. He expressed gratitude to the current government for continuously supporting persons with disabilities, unlike previous administrations that discriminated against them.
Rukungiri District Assistant Resident District Commissioner (Ass. DRDC) Ms. Kagisha Kellen also addressed the gathering. She urged beneficiaries to use the funds responsibly, emphasizing the importance of accountability, record-keeping, and project balance to ensure sustainability and progress.
Kellen condemned group leaders who monopolize power and impose rules on fellow members. She instead called for unity, teamwork, and project-focused development based on the support received from the government.
She warned beneficiaries not to misuse the money, reminding them that although it is a grant, it must be used productively and transparently to truly improve the lives of persons with disabilities.
