By Kabuye Ronald
The government has marked a significant breakthrough in the rollout of the Parish Development Model (PDM), with cumulative transfers to parishes now totaling Shs 3.216 trillion, according to the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development.
The achievement was highlighted this morning as Finance Minister Matia Kasaija announced the release of Shs 259 billion—the first tranche of PDM capitalization funds for the 2025/26 financial year. Starting tomorrow, all 10,589 verified PDM SACCOs are set to receive Shs 50 million directly on their accounts.
Under the PDM funding structure, each parish SACCO is entitled to Shs 100 million annually, disbursed in two instalments of Shs 50 million every six months. Minister Kasaija said this predictable release cycle is designed to stabilize SACCO operations and promote consistent lending to households.
Speaking at the release ceremony held at the ministry headquarters, Kasaija emphasized that government’s financial dedication underscores its commitment to driving grassroots economic transformation.
“The Parish Development Model is no longer a theory. It is a reality. It is in your parishes. It is in your households. PDM is growing bigger, stronger and more impactful,” he said.
Government figures show that each parish has so far received at least Shs 300 million since the programme began. Authorities also report that 99% of previously released funds have already reached beneficiaries, impacting an estimated 3.27 million Ugandans.
The newly released funds are expected to trigger a fresh lending cycle in rural areas, particularly supporting agriculture production, small-scale trading, and value addition enterprises.
Kasaija added that enhanced monitoring and digital tracking mechanisms are being used to ensure SACCOs extend loans responsibly and that households channel the funds into productive ventures.
He urged parish leaders and SACCO management committees to “guard the funds jealously” and ensure timely access for intended beneficiaries, stressing that the success of PDM hinges on disciplined financial stewardship and tangible improvements in household incomes.
