The Speaker of Parliament, Anita Among, has called for the swift and effective implementation of the Parish Development Model (PDM) to ensure it benefits the intended Ugandans.

She made the remarks during the presentation of the Auditor General’s Report for the financial year 2024/2025 to Parliament.

According to the report, the Auditor General, Edward Akol, noted that although the government fully released over one trillion shillings for the Parish Development Model, several challenges continue to undermine the program’s effectiveness.

Among the key challenges highlighted are delayed release of funds to beneficiary SACCOs, non-existent SACCOs, diversion of funds, duplication of beneficiaries, and the ineligibility of some SACCOs, among others.

In response, Speaker Anita Among urged the Office of the Auditor General to work closely with and hold accountable all responsible government agencies to ensure that the Parish Development Model achieves its intended goal.

She emphasised that the government cannot afford to ignore Ugandans trapped in poverty, while only a few individuals benefit from poverty alleviation programs meant for the most vulnerable.