RONALD N
A new list of 140 potential beneficiaries under the Parish Development Model (PDM) has been constituted in Rwakabengo Ward, Rukungiri District, in a move aimed at addressing earlier irregularities that had stalled the disbursement of funds.
The decision follows a meeting held on 23rd February 2026 at Rwakabengo Catholic Church, where the Resident District Commissioner (RDC) of Rukungiri District, Buroni Kikashemeza, disbanded the initial list of beneficiaries. The RDC cited irregularities by the PDM SACCO committee and directed that a new committee be constituted immediately to restore transparency and accountability in the process.
Acting on this directive, a team of stakeholders led by Richard Baguma, the Principal Commercial Officer, convened another meeting with residents on 24th February 2026 at the same venue. The purpose of the meeting was to generate a fresh list of beneficiaries. However, it was resolved that the existing PDM SACCO committee would remain in place to avoid further delays in the disbursement process.
Speaking shortly after the meeting, Baguma said the reconstitution of the beneficiaries’ list had helped to eliminate the irregularities that had for a long time hindered the release of PDM funds in the area. He noted that all beneficiaries were thoroughly verified by enterprise chairpersons, working together with Local Council One chairpersons, to ensure that only genuine residents of Rwakabengo Ward were considered.
Meanwhile, the Principal Town Agent for Rwakabengo Ward, Frank Nturyangenda, revealed that all 140 registered beneficiaries will undergo mandatory training before accessing the funds. He added that those who successfully complete the training will be awarded certificates.
Nturyangenda further explained that the disbursement will be done in phases, with 50 beneficiaries set to receive funds in the first phase, while the remaining beneficiaries will benefit in subsequent phases.
Residents have welcomed the development, expressing renewed hope in the government program . Ntumwebaze Angelous, a resident of Rwakabengo Ward, said the decision to constitute a new list has restored confidence among community members. He expressed optimism that the PDM funds for Rwakabengo will now be disbursed soon.
