The Parish Development Model: Uganda’s Grassroots Solution to Poverty

By Eve Kyampaire

The Parish Development Model (PDM), introduced by President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, is transforming Uganda's fight against poverty by empowering communities at the grassroots level. Designed to uplift the poorest citizens, the PDM decentralizes economic support, fostering sustainable livelihoods in every parish—the country's smallest administrative unit.

A Vision for Localized Development

President Museveni launched the PDM to address poverty directly by channeling resources and decision-making to parishes. This initiative prioritizes commercial agriculture, manufacturing, services, and ICT to boost household incomes. It empowers local communities through projects such as agricultural support, financial inclusion, infrastructure development, and vocational training.

So far, 10,589 Parish Development SACCOs have been established across 177 districts. By the end of October 2024, UGX 2.197 trillion had been cumulatively disbursed, benefitting over 1.85 million people.

How PDM Funding is Used

According to the Parish Development Model (PDM) National Status Report as Of 30/10/2024, beneficiaries are investing in diverse areas:

42% in crop farming (coffee, maize, cassava, vegetables).
39% in livestock farming (goats, dairy cattle, piggery).
17% in poultry farming.
2% in non-farming enterprises like baking and retail.

Transforming Regions: Success Stories

In Bukedi, where over 110,000 beneficiaries have received funds, many families report remarkable changes. Ms. Nabutono used UGX 1 million from her SACCO to start a piggery, enabling her to pay school fees and expand into poultry farming. President Museveni praised her initiative, saying, “You have seen what UGX 1 million can do.”

In Teso, 157,078 beneficiaries are using PDM grants to combat drought-related hardships. Peter Okello of Soroti District invested in poultry farming, significantly improving his family's income. Similarly, Joseph Ijara of Serere District transitioned from taxi driving to managing a thriving 35-acre farm that earns up to UGX 600 million annually.

In Karamoja, traditionally plagued by drought and famine, the PDM has introduced alternative livelihoods such as sustainable agriculture and piggery projects. Beneficiary James Lokoro from Moroto District noted, “Diversifying income through crops and livestock has stabilized my family financially.”

National Impact and Future Prospects

The PDM is not just a poverty alleviation program; it is a vehicle for socio-economic transformation. By decentralizing resources and fostering self-reliance, it addresses the root causes of poverty while empowering Ugandans to achieve sustainable development.

As Uganda continues to implement this model, the PDM offers hope for a prosperous future where no community is left behind. Its success across Bukedi, Teso, and Karamoja illustrates its potential to reshape the nation’s economic landscape.

A Brighter, Inclusive Future

The Parish Development Model has proven to be a game-changer for Uganda, offering practical solutions to long-standing poverty. With continued support, the program will uplift millions, ensuring a brighter and more equitable future for all Ugandans.