Kayunga PDM officials directed to prioritize youth and PWDs for funding

Kayunga District production officials have issued a directive to Parish Development Model (PDM) implementers, emphasizing the need to prioritize youth and Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) during the selection of beneficiaries. The move is intended to boost the livelihoods of these groups and foster inclusive economic growth.

Charles Iga, the District Production Officer, highlighted that youth and PWDs are significantly underrepresented in the PDM, despite constituting a substantial portion of the population. He stressed that to achieve the PDM’s goal of transitioning households from subsistence farming to the money economy, these vulnerable segments of society must be deliberately targeted.

“Youth and Persons with Disabilities make up a large percentage of our population, yet many of them have not benefited enough from the Parish Development Model,” Iga stated. “PDM officers should ensure they are prioritised so they can improve their livelihoods and become economically independent.”

He further explained that increasing youth involvement in income-generating activities is crucial for reducing unemployment. Similarly, providing support to PWDs promotes self-reliance and alleviates poverty in vulnerable households.

Iga also urged PDM implementers to guide beneficiaries towards profitable enterprises, closely monitor fund utilization, and offer ongoing technical support to ensure the long-term success of funded projects. Transparency and inclusivity in beneficiary selection, free from discrimination or political influence, were also stressed for local leaders and parish chiefs.

The Parish Development Model, a government initiative launched in February 2022, aims to lift households out of subsistence living by channeling revolving funds to parish-level SACCOs for viable income-generating activities. Each eligible beneficiary can access loans of up to Shs1 million for ventures such as farming, livestock, poultry, and fisheries.

This effort is part of a broader push to strengthen household incomes and contribute to the socio-economic transformation of Kayunga District. The government continues to urge local leaders to ensure that PDM funds are effectively utilized for productive purposes that yield sustainable incomes.

Source: Nile Post