Kiryandongo, (UG): Kiryandongo District leaders have launched livelihood projects worth 50 million shillings to 12 beneficiary groups in 12 sub-counties. The projects launched have been funded through the Ministry of Bunyoro Affairs in the Office of the Prime Minister for the Financial year 2023/2024.
According to Geoffrey Dabanja the District Community Development Officer of Kiryandongo, the micro-projects are a result of affirmative action by the government of Uganda to bridge livelihood gaps between Bunyoro and other regions.
Dabanja added that the projects are meant to improve the household incomes of the beneficiaries. He, however, noted that there is a tendency for beneficiaries to share the money amongst themselves and others diverting the funds away from their approved business plans.
Dabanja called upon the political leaders to monitor and supervise the beneficiaries so that they use the money correctly to achieve the desired goal.
Martins Jacan Gwokto the CAO of Kiryandongo implored the beneficiaries to invest the money appropriately to improve their household incomes and eradicate poverty.
“Use the money properly, don’t invest it where you have not planned and been guided. Please stick to your enterprises because they were appraised and approved by the technical people,” said Gwokto.
Gwokto also urged the beneficiaries to make good use of the extension workers at sub-counties to minimise risks involved in the selected enterprises like poultry and piggery.
“Seek for expert knowledge from the technical staff for guidance on your enterprises. The government has employed extension workers to guide and help you. This is the only way you will avoid risks associated with your enterprises,” said Gwokto.
Edith Aliguma Adyeri the District Chairperson of Kiryandongo thanked the President of Uganda and the Ministry for supporting livelihood interventions in communities.
She extended her appreciation to the state Minister for Bunyoro affairs Jennifer Namuyangu Kacha for her passion towards supporting livelihood improvement in Kiryandongo District.
Aliguma cautioned the beneficiaries against withdrawing the funds before time for investing it in the planned enterprise. “There are some enterprises which are seasonal. If you realize that it is not yet the right season to invest, do not withdraw the money from the bank to avoid temptations which may lead to mismanagement,” Mr Aliguma said.
She noted that from lessons learned from the money disbursed to PDM beneficiaries, grants given to the people can improve their livelihoods if they seek guidance from the technical officers. She added that Kiryandongo is known for best implementation of government programs which calls for the beneficiaries to ensure this legacy is upheld.
Jonathan Akweteireho, the Deputy RDC Kiryandongo highlighted a number of government interventions which have directly targeted individuals and groups with the aim of improving their livelihoods and eradicating poverty.
“When I was growing up, I did not know that government can give money to the people directly. I thought the government only gives roads, schools, health services and others. However, the NRM government has invested money directly through PDM, Emyooga, Youth Livelihood Programme, Uganda Women Entrepreneurship Programme and other interventions,” said Akweteireho.
Akweteireho urged the beneficiaries to work together so as they transform their families and the community. “You should not share this money but rather invest as groups. If you share this money, you are contributing to the downfall of the community and the nation at large because you will be teaching your children corruption and bad manners,” said Akweteireho.
The Ministry of Bunyoro Affairs has disbursed funds worth 120 million shillings to 26 beneficiary groups since the Financial year 2020/2021 to date and more 203 million is expected for additional 26 groups this year.
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