development 15 September 2026 Nile Post
Luwero Leaders Highlight Drought and Theft Hindering PDM, OWC
Local leaders in Greater Luwero have pinpointed severe drought, persistent livestock theft, insufficient irrigation, and restricted market access as significant obstacles to the success of government poverty-alleviation programs like PDM and OWC. Source: https://nilepost.co.ug/news/370881/luwero-leaders-raise-drought-livestock-theft-challenges-in-pdm-owc-programmes
District leaders in the Greater Luwero region have voiced serious concerns regarding multiple challenges that are impeding the effectiveness of key government development initiatives. During a recent meeting with Brig Gen Godfrey Muwanguzi, Deputy Chief Coordinator of Operation Wealth Creation (OWC), officials highlighted that prolonged drought conditions, coupled with inadequate irrigation infrastructure, are severely impacting agricultural productivity.
Furthermore, rampant livestock theft was identified as a major deterrent, directly affecting the livelihoods of farmers and hindering their ability to benefit from programs such as the Parish Development Model (PDM), Emyooga, and OWC. The leaders stressed that these issues collectively limit the potential for beneficiaries to increase their household incomes.
Beyond the immediate climatic and security concerns, leaders also pointed to a deficit in fish pond development and limited market access for agricultural produce as further constraints. They urged the government to boost investment in irrigation and implement strategies to curb livestock theft.
To address these issues, the leaders advocated for increased government focus on agro-processing and value addition initiatives. They believe these measures would enable farmers to gain more from their harvests and foster more sustainable market opportunities.
Brig Gen Muwanguzi acknowledged the concerns and assured the leaders that they would be escalated to the relevant authorities for action. He also encouraged communities to actively utilize existing security structures and promptly report any security threats. Muwanguzi further emphasized the need for a shift in community mindset, urging beneficiaries to fully leverage the PDM’s seven pillars for improved livelihoods.
The meeting, which included district officials and various agricultural stakeholders, was part of OWC’s ongoing efforts to assess and improve the implementation of national development programs across the country.
Source: Nile Post