The Chairperson of Gombe Division in Nansana Municipality, Hawa Mbabazi, has issued a stern warning to village chairpersons and Parish Development Model (PDM) committee members accused of undermining the government's flagship poverty alleviation programme.
Speaking during a meeting with local leaders in Gombe Division, Mbabazi said some officials have been frustrating the implementation of the PDM through misconduct and irregularities that have tarnished the image of the government among beneficiaries.
She expressed concern over reports that some village chairpersons have been influencing the selection of PDM committee members and allocating positions to individuals who do not qualify for the roles.
“There are leaders who are frustrating the implementation of the Parish Development Model and causing the public to lose confidence in government programmes. We shall not tolerate such actions. Any village chairperson or PDM committee member found sabotaging the programme will face disciplinary measures,” Mbabazi warned.
She emphasized that the Parish Development Model remains a key government intervention aimed at transforming households from subsistence living to participation in the money economy and therefore requires transparency, accountability and integrity from local leaders.
Mbabazi urged leaders at all levels to work closely with residents and ensure that government programmes reach the intended beneficiaries without interference, favoritism or manipulation.
The meeting was also convened to discuss the planned road naming exercise across Gombe Division, an initiative officials say will improve service delivery and make it easier to identify locations within the rapidly growing urban area.
During the meeting, leaders were briefed on the importance of the exercise and their role in supporting its implementation.
The Physical Planner for Nansana Municipality, Simon Kiguli, said assigning names to roads and streets would bring significant benefits to both residents and government institutions.
“Road naming is essential for effective service delivery. It will make it easier for police, health workers and other emergency responders to locate communities and provide assistance whenever needed,” Kiguli explained.
He added that properly identified roads would support urban planning, improve navigation, facilitate investment and enhance development within the municipality.
According to municipal officials, the exercise is expected to improve address systems, strengthen emergency response mechanisms and support the efficient delivery of public services.
Local leaders welcomed the initiative and pledged to support both the road naming exercise and the effective implementation of government programmes in their respective areas.