From Farms to Small Businesses: PDM Transforms Lives in Abim District

“The Parish Development Model is transforming lives in every parish, helping families grow their farms and small enterprises while ensuring no community is left behind,” the Abim district chairperson stated.

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Abim District continues to benefit from the Parish Development Model (PDM), with thousands of households across its 72 parishes experiencing improved livelihoods and greater access to government support.

According to the 2024 census, Abim has a population of 144,084, spread across 16 sub-counties/town councils, 72 parishes, and 534 villages.

Following the rollout of PDM, the district has received UGX 22.2 billion, of which UGX 22.1 billion (99.74%) has already been disbursed to 22,778 beneficiary households, demonstrating effective implementation and accountability.

Johnny Dewest Ariko, Abim District Chairperson, noted that the Parish Development Model (PDM) is enabling families across the district to access resources that enhance their livelihoods, particularly in agriculture and small businesses, while bringing development closer to every parish.

“The Parish Development Model is transforming lives in every parish, helping families grow their farms and small enterprises while ensuring no community is left behind,” the Abim district chairperson stated.

Residents of Kotido Parish have expressed gratitude for the initiative.

“Before PDM, we had limited support for farming and small businesses. Now, our families can invest in crops and livestock, which has improved our income,” Mary Akello, a local beneficiary revealed.

The district’s PDM implementation team emphasizes transparency and inclusivity in fund disbursement.

Jane Anyango, the Abim District PDM Coordinator, explained that the program ensures all eligible households are accounted for, with funds distributed equitably, fostering transparency and trust in government initiatives.

“We make sure every eligible household receives support fairly, so no family is left behind, and the community can trust that government programs work for them,” the Abim district PDM coordinator noted.

As Abim District continues to expand PDM activities, local leaders hope that sustained support and careful monitoring will further improve the economic and social lives of residents, while serving as a model for other districts in Northern Uganda.

Abim’s experience with the PDM shows that when programs are managed transparently and inclusively, they can improve lives and inspire broader development across Northern Uganda.