Namuwenge calls for mindset change, embrace inclusive PDM implementation

Mbale, Uganda: The National Coordinator for the Emyooga program and Eastern Region consultant for the Parish Development Model (PDM), Ritah Namuwenge, has called on local leaders in Mbale to adopt a service-oriented mindset and ensure the PDM program benefits all citizens, regardless of political affiliation.

Namuwenge made the remarks during a community engagement meeting with PDM stakeholders of Wakwaba Lower in Nauyo, Mbale Industrial City Division on Wednesday afternoon. The meeting brought together Parish Development Committees (PDCs), PDM SACCO leaders, Village Health Teams (VHTs), religious leaders, and newly elected LC1 flag bearers.

She emphasized that poverty erodes individual agency and hampers development, reiterating that government initiatives like Emyooga and PDM were introduced by President Yoweri Museveni to empower households economically.

“Poverty is bad, you can’t decide anything when you’re poor. So let’s use these government funds wisely to eradicate poverty in our households,” Namuwenge said.

She decried the prevailing notion that leadership is about personal gain, stating, “Our people believe that leadership is about eating. That’s wrong. Leadership is about serving the people.”

Namuwenge further urged LC leaders to avoid political bias in the implementation of PDM, warning against the exclusion of opposition supporters from benefiting.

“PDM is a program of President Museveni, not just the National Chairman of NRM. Everyone qualifies for PDM funds. Why should opposition members be excluded?” she posed.

She also took aim at individuals close to the President, accusing them of failing to reflect his inclusive vision.

“President Museveni is not the problem, it’s us around him. He believes that if he gives you a job, you’ll use it to help others and grow the party. But what are we doing with those opportunities?” Namuwenge asked.

In a candid moment, she challenged local NRM leaders in Mbale to learn from their counterparts in other districts. “Instead of lobbying for the youth, some leaders report them to security simply because they support NUP. Let’s talk to them, bring them closer, and advocate for them to receive capital and opportunities instead of deploying drones to arrest them,” she said.

Namuwenge concluded with a personal appeal for trust and support from residents of Nauyo. “If you give me your votes, five years is a short time, you’ll see what I can do. I’m ready to serve you better. Trust me. I’m a troop commander, we can transform this city together.”