Uganda officials demand accountability for Parish Development Model funds

Ugandan officials are addressing implementation challenges within the Parish Development Model (PDM), a government initiative designed to reduce household poverty through community groups and SACCOs.

In Lira City, Member of Parliament Dr. Jane Ruth Aceng Ocero has called for greater transparency, demanding that local leaders account for the utilization of funds before requesting further government support. Lira City Resident City Commissioner Emmy Lawrence Egole has ordered SACCO leaders to submit accountability reports, warning that the government may recover any misused funds or assets. Currently, approximately Shs16 billion of the Shs20 billion received by the city has been disbursed.

In Ruhinda North County, Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa addressed resident concerns regarding long delays in fund access, with some applicants waiting up to two years. Tayebwa noted that funds are released in installments, which can cause delays in larger parishes. He emphasized the need for transparency by displaying applicant lists on parish noticeboards and urged citizens to report corruption or illegal charges, noting that residents should not pay anyone to access the funds.