news 24 June 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Bukwo PDM Sacco Officials Arrested, Others Flee to Kenya Amid Shs30 Billion Fraud Allegations
Several leaders of the Parish Development Programme (PDP) Saccos in Bukwo District have been arrested, while others have escaped to Kenya, following accusations of embezzling billions of shillings intended for the program. Preliminary investigations suggest widespread misuse of funds by Sacco leaders in collusion with technical staff. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/bukwo-pdm-sacco-leaders-arrested-others-flee-to-kenya-over-shs30b-fraud-5507226
The Parish Development Programme (PDP) in Bukwo District is facing a significant crisis as numerous Sacco leaders and program officials stand accused of misappropriating an estimated Shs30 billion. The funds, disbursed since the program’s inception in 2022, have allegedly been siphoned off by Sacco leaders, with a substantial portion misused.
Investigations reveal a pattern where Sacco leaders manipulate beneficiary lists. They reportedly alter details during payment processes, rerouting funds to their own mobile numbers instead of the intended recipients. Parishes like Mutushet, Kapkumolon, and Kapnaunjiro have reported significant losses, with amounts ranging from Shs35 million to Shs78 million lost in individual parishes within Mutushet Sub-county.
Several key figures, including Sacco chairpersons, treasurers, and secretaries, have been detained at Bukwo Central Police Station. The Resident District Commissioner (RDC), Mr. George Owanyi, stated that nine suspects are slated for court arraignment if the embezzled funds are not reimbursed. The RDC further indicated that efforts are underway to apprehend those who have fled across the border into Kenya, emphasizing their determination to bring all culprits to justice.
Authorities suspect that even technical staff within the district are involved, and the arrested individuals will be interrogated to identify their accomplices. Local leaders have expressed frustration, noting that the Sacco leaders often bypass established guidelines, such as transferring bulk funds directly from Sacco accounts, a practice that deviates from PDM procedures.
Compounding the issue, some Sacco leaders have allegedly manipulated the system to disburse funds multiple times. Reports also indicate payments being made to deceased individuals and premature recoveries being orchestrated by Sacco leaders. The objective of the PDM program, which aims to alleviate household poverty and boost incomes, is being severely undermined by these fraudulent activities.