President Yoweri Museveni has expressed his excitement over the progress of Ugandans utilising government programs such as the Parish Development Model (PDM).
Speaking this week during his tour of the Sebei sub-region, he highlighted the transformative impact of the initiative on individuals and communities.
“I am glad to see that people are beginning to wake up,” Museveni stated. “Everywhere I go, I notice progress. This reminds me of where we were back in 1986. When I first visited the Sebei sub-region, people were hardworking, but they were working without Ekibaro (calculation).”
Museveni’s tour included visits to exemplary beneficiaries of PDM. He commended Mr. Nicholas Chelimo, a model farmer in Bukwo District, who has successfully managed a four-acre enterprise, integrating banana farming, coffee, maize production, poultry and dairy farming.
In Kween District, he visited his elder sister, Agogo Akisa Lovisa, a PDM beneficiary. Despite past hardships, including insecurity, loss of livestock and the death of her husband, Lovisa has rebuilt her life and raised her children with resilience and determination. Museveni lauded her story as an inspiration for others.
The President also visited his granddaughter, Mrs. Doreen Yapsiwa, in Kapchorwa District. Yapsiwa has leveraged PDM support to enhance her wealth creation efforts.
With PDM funding supplemented by 400,000 shillings of her own savings, she acquired a cow to complement her banana plantation and 500 coffee trees on one acre of land. “That is very good,” Museveni said.
He emphasized the sustainability of the Parish Development Model, highlighting its favorable repayment terms that allow beneficiaries to access continued support for livelihood improvement.
Museveni, however, cautioned against the misuse of PDM funds, urging leaders to safeguard resources from corruption. “Corruption undermines progress and hinders the fight against poverty. We must protect these resources for future generations,” he said.
“If we do this, we can secure a better future for all Ugandans,” added.