PDM leaders stand to grab, not to lead

By Ali lukomo

Buyende District leadership has raised concerns over challenges affecting the implementation of the Parish Development Model (PDM) during a meeting with PDM chairpersons and secretaries at the district headquarters, aimed at addressing gaps in leadership and service delivery within the community.

The Parish Development Model, a government initiative introduced to support households through the provision of UGX 1 million per beneficiary, has been in implementation for three years as a strategy to promote self-reliance and improve livelihoods.

However, officials noted several challenges at the grassroots level, particularly relating to leadership structures responsible for coordinating the programme. Under the arrangement, elected parish SACCO leaders are expected to work closely with parish chiefs to ensure that funds reach the intended beneficiaries.

Concerns were raised that some leaders are failing to fulfil their responsibilities effectively, with allegations of mismanagement of funds in some areas. It was reported that, in some cases, beneficiaries have received less than the stipulated UGX 1 million, with some reportedly receiving as little as UGX 300,000.

The programme is disbursed through mobile money platforms, including Wendi Transfer, with each eligible beneficiary expected to receive UGX 1 million.

There are also allegations that some parish chiefs and SACCO leaders may be colluding to divert or mismanage funds, with claims that some beneficiaries receive payments in their absence or receive reduced amounts.

As the district moves towards electing new PDM leadership structures, tensions have emerged, with some incumbent leaders reportedly resisting replacement, while community members express dissatisfaction with existing leadership.

Buyende District Resident District Commissioner, Paul Kalikwani Mwiidu, warned against corruption in the implementation of the programme, stating that such practices would not be tolerated. He urged incoming leaders to uphold integrity and ensure that PDM funds are properly managed for their intended purpose.

However, the Buyende District Local Council V Chairperson, Sharif Mangareine, challenged the community and leadership to publicly display the names of beneficiaries who have so far received the funds, to enhance transparency, identification and accountability.