NRM Treasurer Warns PDM Officials Against Extorting Beneficiaries

• NRM National Treasurer Barbara Nekesa warned officials against demanding money from PDM beneficiaries.
• Busia District received approximately Shs19 billion under the Parish Development Model.
• About 85 percent of PDM funds have been put to their intended use, despite initial mismanagement.
• Beneficiaries like Obano John Kubebea have seen significant improvements in their income after using PDM funding for coffee farming.
• NRM National Treasurer Barbara Nekesa emphasized the need for stronger irrigation systems to support farmers during dry spells.

The warning comes as the government continues to invest heavily in PDM, with Busia District receiving approximately Shs19 billion under the programme.

The National Resistance Movement (NRM) has issued a stern warning to government officials involved in the Parish Development Model (PDM). According to NRM National Treasurer Barbara Nekesa, officials found soliciting money from PDM beneficiaries will face serious consequences. This move is aimed at preventing the undermining of the programme and protecting the government's image. The warning comes as the government continues to invest heavily in PDM, with Busia District receiving approximately Shs19 billion under the programme. Despite initial mismanagement of some funds, about 85 percent has been put to its intended use.

Beneficiaries of the Parish Development Model have expressed gratitude for the programme's impact on their livelihoods. Obano John Kubebea, a professional teacher from Matofu Village in Mbehenyi Parish, Masaba Sub-county, has seen significant improvements in his income after using PDM funding to establish a large coffee plantation. Each harvest earns him approximately Shs3 million, contributing to the economic growth of Busia District. However, Kubebea highlighted the challenges faced by farmers, including prolonged drought and inadequate funding.

NRM National Treasurer Barbara Nekesa has emphasized the need for stronger irrigation systems to support farmers during dry spells. This measure would enable them to maintain production and maximize the benefits of government-supported programmes like PDM. The programme's success in creating opportunities for communities to improve their livelihoods has been acknowledged by Samia Bugwe Central Member of Parliament Richard Wanyama.

Lawyers should advise clients to be aware of potential extortion attempts by government officials when participating in the Parish Development Model, and ensure that all transactions are properly documented to avoid any compliance issues.

Source: Original reporting via Nile Post