The Pillar Manager for the Parish Development Model (PDM) at the Ministry of Finance, Golooba Lwanga Kezekia, has emphasized the critical role of household financial empowerment in national development.
Speaking during Spotlight Uganda, hosted by Sanyuka Television on Wednesday under the theme: “Financial Empowerment: Unlocking Uganda’s Household Wealth,” Kezekia highlighted the importance of earnings, savings, expenditures, and parish-level development initiatives in improving the economic well-being of Ugandans.
“Earnings, savings, expenditures, and parish development programs all work together to enable the development of Ugandans,” he said.
Kezekia noted the government’s initiative to allocate Shs 100 million to each parish as a catalyst for local economic development.
“The President provided Shs 100 million to each parish to attract people to develop the country’s economy, so that in their homes they can earn, spend, and save,” he explained.
The Parish Development Model operates at the sub-county level, ensuring every parish has an active PDM initiative. Participation requires registration, and only families whose livelihoods depend on productive work can access loans under the program.
Kezekia clarified that PDM funds must be invested in productive work such as farming and value addition. “PDM funds can only be used for productive work, specifically farming and value addition, not for paying school fees or drinking,” he said.
Beneficiaries are eligible to borrow up to Shs 1 million at a 6% annual interest rate—equivalent to Shs 60,000—with a repayment period of three years. The program is designed to promote financial literacy, encourage productive investment, and support sustainable household income growth.
“The Parish Development Model is a practical tool for empowering Ugandan households and strengthening our economy from the grassroots. By focusing on productive investments, we ensure that every citizen contributes to national development,” Kezekia said.
The Ministry of Finance continues to advocate for widespread participation in the PDM program to maximize its impact on household wealth and community development.