Some beneficiaries of the Parish Development Model in the Tooro sub region are considering withdrawing from the program due to what they perceive as unfavourable conditions to access funds and overwhelming numbers at financial institutions.
Many recipients in Fort Portal City and Kabarole district have voiced their frustration over the arduous process of accessing funds, citing long journeys, account requirements, and crowded banks as major hurdles.
A significant number of beneficiaries have reported being instructed to open bank accounts exclusively with Housing Finance Bank, a process that requires creating an email address and depositing ten thousand shillings into their new accounts.
For many, this procedure has turned into days of travel, with multiple trips to the bank and no progress to show for their efforts.
Lovis Kaseregenyu Bafaki, a resident of Ntezi II in Hakibaale subcounty, Kabarole district, and a beneficiary of the Parish Development Model, has spent the last three days traveling between his home and Fortportal City to open an account with Housing Finance Bank.
"I have so far spent over shillings 60,000 on transport alone and am not sure whether today I will be served."Kaseregenyu lamented.
Kaseregenyu's frustration was apparent when we found him under a tent set up by Housing Finance Bank on a city street in Fortportal. Even with the additional space, hundreds of beneficiaries still faced delays in receiving services.
Murungi John Mary, a resident of Kijanju B in Fortportal Central division, shared a similar experience, emphasizing the need for improved service delivery.
Those who could not endure the long lines resorted to sleeping on the ground, turning it into their daily routine while waiting for their turn.
Irene Linda, the Woman Member of Parliament for Fortportal City, expressed concern, saying,
"All beneficiaries in Fortportal were directed to Housing Finance Bank, which lacks sufficient staff to handle the high number of beneficiaries."
Dr. Businge Stanley, the Production Officer for Fortportal City and the coordinator of the Parish Development Model program, acknowledged the complaints about delays and noted that discussions had taken place with the bank.
They were promised an increase in staff to expedite the process. He also mentioned that 465 beneficiaries from eight wards in Fortportal had received their funds and remained optimistic that the rest would follow suit.
As the program faces these initial challenges, stakeholders are working to address the issues and ensure that beneficiaries can access their funds more efficiently, ultimately promoting the success of the Parish Development Model in the region.