Kitagwenda RDC warns on PDM cash distribution

The Assistant Resident District Commissioner (RDC) of Kitagwenda, Ephrance Kenyonyozi, has issued a warning to Parish Development Model (PDM) Committee leaders regarding the equitable distribution of funds.

Kenyonyozi emphasized that the primary purpose of the PDM funds is to support struggling families within the subsistence economy, helping them to build sustainable livelihoods.

She condemned instances where these funds were reportedly reaching individuals outside the intended beneficiary group.

The Assistant RDC’s concerns came during a recent district budget conference held at Kitagwenda Secondary School in Kitagwenda Town Council, where she addressed district leaders and PDM committee members.

Kenyonyozi voiced her disappointment over reports that funds meant for impoverished households were instead benefiting wealthier individuals.

“It’s deeply concerning to see that most of those benefitting from these funds do not belong to the subsistence economy,” Kenyonyozi stated.

“These resources are for the families who are struggling to earn a living, and any diversion is unfair and undermines the purpose of the program.”

She reminded the PDM committee members of their responsibility to uphold the program’s mission of alleviating poverty for those in the most vulnerable socio-economic groups.

She stressed that the Parish Development Model was not intended to benefit those already economically secure.

“The primary goal of the Parish Development Model is to empower people who are still in the subsistence economy. It’s about giving them a chance to break out of the cycle of poverty and start building a sustainable livelihood,” she explained.

She called on district leaders to evaluate their processes for selecting beneficiaries, ensuring that funds reach those who genuinely need them.

The Assistant RDC urged the PDM committee leaders to “prioritize fairness and accountability in the distribution of these funds” and reminded them of the importance of transparency.

“Let’s remember who we are supposed to be helping and ensure that we uphold this commitment,” she added.

The Parish Development Model, launched by the Ugandan government, is a flagship initiative designed to address poverty at the grassroots level, focusing on elevating those within the subsistence economy into productive livelihoods.

However, Kenyonyozi’s concerns underscore the challenges of maintaining accountability and adherence to the program’s core mission of poverty alleviation.

Her comments highlight the need for strict oversight to ensure that funds are not diverted from their intended purpose.

Kenyonyozi’s appeal calls for local leaders to enforce stringent selection criteria, making sure that only those in the most vulnerable households receive this critical support.

She  reiterated the importance of equitable fund distribution for the program’s long-term success.

“The Parish Development Model is our chance to bridge the economic gap and create equal opportunities for all’’, she added.