Manafwa Parish Chief; Rogers Lumbuku

By Our Staff Reporter

February 24, 2026
Manafwa-Residents of Manafwa Parish continue to await the full rollout of the Parish Development Model (PDM) funds, despite recent statements from President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni reaffirming government intentions to enhance allocations under the flagship anti-poverty program.

The PDM, launched in 2022, serves as the government’s primary strategy to transition households from subsistence farming into the money economy. It aims to foster commercial agriculture, financial inclusion, and broader economic transformation to help Uganda achieve middle-income status. President Museveni has repeatedly highlighted the initiative in manifestos and public addresses, emphasizing its role in household wealth creation.

In recent remarks, the President has reiterated plans to strengthen the program, including proposals to increase annual parish funding. Currently, each parish receives around UGX 100 million per year, typically supporting 100 households with approximately UGX 1 million each (revolving funds via SACCOs). Museveni has announced intentions to raise this to UGX 200 million per parish in future phases, particularly post-elections, to reach more households and accelerate impact. Some urban-focused adjustments have included higher allocations, though no nationwide confirmation of UGX 2 million per individual has been detailed in recent official releases.

However, on the ground in Manafwa Parish, implementation remains in progress. Parish Chief Rogers Manafwa addressed local concerns, clarifying that the program has not yet been fully executed in the area.
“The program has not yet been implemented. It is expected in June, preparations are still ongoing,” the parish chief stated.

He added that the first batch of beneficiaries for this year are receiving funds in March, with broader distribution—including any enhanced allocations slated for June. Chief Manafwa urged residents selected as beneficiaries to use the funds responsibly and productively to meet program obligations and contribute to personal and community development.

The clarification comes as the PDM continues its evolution nationwide. Recent government actions include releasing tranches for the 2025/2026 financial year, with over UGX 3 trillion disbursed cumulatively to parishes across Uganda. The program has faced challenges such as delays, accountability concerns, and calls for better transparency, but officials maintain it is yielding results in household income growth.

As preparations advance in Manafa Parish, local leaders encourage eligible households to engage actively with parish structures, including SACCOs, to ensure smooth access when funds arrive.

The government continues to position the PDM as a cornerstone for grassroots economic empowerment, with ongoing monitoring and potential expansions on the horizon. Residents are advised to stay updated through official parish channels for the latest on disbursement timelines.