The government's flagship Parish Development Model program is being hailed as a transformative initiative by beneficiaries in Kayunga District. However, while praising the program's impact, recipients are now calling for an increase in the loan amounts and more flexible repayment terms to maximise its effectiveness. Our correspondent, Lawrence Salt, has the details.
In the village of Kyamimbi, Kayunga District, the Parish Development Model is more than a policy—it's a lifeline. Beneficiaries here have gathered to share their experiences with senior government officials, including the National PDM Coordinator, Hon. Galabuzi Ssozi Denis, and Dr. Katende Edward.
The overwhelming message from the community is one of gratitude, but also a plea for expansion. Residents say the capital provided has been instrumental in starting small-scale enterprises, but they argue the amounts are too modest and the repayment period is too short to achieve significant, lasting change.
The meeting began at the Kayunga District headquarters, where Hon. Galabuzi met with PDM coordinators from the Central Region before proceeding to Kyamimbi village to hear directly from the people.
In his response, the National PDM Coordinator reaffirmed the program's grassroots focus and gave beneficiaries a reason for optimism.
However, officials issued a stern warning against malpractice. Dr Katende Edward of the Rural Development Forum and the Kayunga RDC, Nalubega Mariam Sseguya, emphasised that no one is allowed to charge a fee to access the PDM funds.
While the PDM is making inroads here in Kayunga, the consensus is clear: for the model to truly eradicate poverty, its scale must grow alongside the ambitions of the people it aims to serve.
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