Over 4,000 get PDM cash in Zombo
The district has seen significant progress, with only five parishes yet to distribute funds to intended beneficiaries.
Zombo: Over 4,000 beneficiaries in Zombo district have received a total of UGX 4.95 billion from the Parish Development Model (PDM) initiative since its launch in 2022.
This disbursement, representing 81% of the UGX 6.1 billion allocated to the district’s 61 parishes, aims to empower local communities by enabling them to address their own development priorities.
The district has seen significant progress, with only five parishes yet to distribute funds to intended beneficiaries.
James Oyullu Oruna, the LCV Chairperson of Zombo District, recently urged the technical team to assist the remaining parishes in accelerating the distribution process.
He noted that 29 parishes have achieved a 100% disbursement rate, acknowledging community and leadership efforts to make the program successful.
Despite these achievements, some concerns persist, including reports of funds being diverted for personal luxuries among beneficiaries and issues of extortion by parish chiefs and SAACO leaders.
District officials are focusing on ensuring that funds are used effectively to improve beneficiaries’ lives. Derick Rwothungeyu Ocweda, the male district councilor for youth, commended the distribution efforts but stressed the need for enhanced public education on proper fund utilization.
Jimmy Christopher Okwonga, LCIII Chairperson of Kango Sub-county, reported that over UGX 400 million has been disbursed in his sub-county, urging residents to invest the money wisely for long-term benefits.
Concerns over fund management led to recommendations for capacity building for parish chiefs and SAACO leaders. Evelyn Jane Othora, chairperson of the production and natural resources committee, advocated for ongoing training and technical support to improve fund distribution and accountability.
Instances of extortion have also emerged. Recently, officials arrested several SAACO leaders in Kango Sub-county for charging fees to beneficiaries, and the Assistant Resident District Commissioner, Bruno Obomba Manano, cautioned leaders against exploiting the program.
During a youth celebration event in Paidha town, Obomba encouraged residents to report any misconduct to safeguard the initiative’s goal of poverty alleviation.
The PDM initiative, launched by President Yoweri Museveni in 2022, targets mobilizing 17.5 million people from 3.5 million households nationwide.
Beneficiaries like Hophine Ocaya from Malara Village have expressed appreciation, using the funds to enhance agricultural production and start small businesses. However, others, like Agenumungu Sifa, voiced frustration with the program, citing high fees imposed by SAACO leaders that discouraged continued participation. The government remains committed to using this community-driven model to improve lives and eradicate poverty at the grassroots level.
Do you have an advertisement or article you want to publish? Mail us at theugreports@gmail.com or WhatsApp +256394700683.
