BUGWERI: PDM beneficiaries sensitized on proper utilization of funds

Bugweri, (UG):- The beneficiaries of Parish Development Model (PDM) programme in Bugweri District have been asked to make good use of their funds by investing in their proposed business plans other than switching the money to other ventures than those intended for.

This was during a sensitization meeting at Namalemba Sub County headquarters in Bugweri district, which was organized by the Enterprise Uganda, under the ministry of finance, and this targeted those who benefitted and those who are yet to get PDM funds as government heads to release funds in the fourth phase.

Mr. Kyampa Lubanga, the District Commercial Officer, highlighted a major challenge faced by local authorities as many beneficiaries have abandoned their initial business plans in favor of ventures they are not familiar with, resulting in financial losses.

“When you look at their business plans when they are applying for the money, you see seriousness. For example, others may tell you they are going for piggery or dairy cattle, but they end up switching from such plans once they get the money. This is a big challenge,” he said.

Additionally, Mr Kyampa noted delays in the process caused by mistakes in beneficiaries’ applications. Some individuals struggling with the application process seek help from third parties, who may defraud them or make significant errors in the process, leading to further complications.

“These people are given PDM passwords to make their own applications, but they are not able and end up hiring others to apply for them without our knowledge. These people end up cheating them, and when they do it themselves, they make many mistakes which we have again to correct,” Kyampa added.

The Regional Enterprise Officer in the central region that also stretches to Busoga, Mr. Bwiso Timothy, said they were tasked by the ministry of finance to sensitize the beneficiaries and those going to get such that they make good use of the funds.

“A person will decide what to do based on his or her mindset, and some of the beneficiaries end up misusing PDM funds. For this reason, the ministry of finance tasked us to organize these sensitization meetings to positively twist the mindset of our people,” Mr. Bwiso said.

Since Monday, a series of meetings have been held throughout Bugweri District, covering Buyanga, Igombe, Ibulanku, and Namalemba Sub Counties. The turnout at these meetings has been overwhelming, reflecting a strong demand for this guidance.

Some of the beneficiaries who spoke to DailyExpress appreciated Enterprise Uganda for the sensitization, arguing that they delayed opening their eyes to business. Naigaga Harriet from Namalemba Sub County shared her appreciation, noting that she once believed PDM funds were simply for consumption, only to realize they could be used to build a successful business with even modest capital.