Col Emmy Katabazi, the Deputy Director General of the Internal Security Organization (ISO), has addressed the critical challenge of many people misunderstanding the Parish Development Model (PDM) program’s scope by clarifying that the model encompasses all aspects of government operations, not just financial inclusion, which is Pillar III.
During the closure of a five-day launch program for the PDM beneficiary data capture exercise that took place on June 1, 2024, at the RDC’s office in Luuka, Col Katabazi stressed the importance of viewing PDM as a holistic approach to national development.
The Colonel hinted on food security as a critical element of national security. He pointed out the historical exploitation of Africa’s resources, where production benefited others, not the producers. This historical context reinforces the importance of PDM in empowering Ugandans to achieve self-sufficiency.
Col Katabazi also asked the GISOs to ensure that all the primary-going children go to school, adding that once the schools are full, other issues that come with it, like crowded classes, a lack of latrines, and limited teachers, among others, can be dealt with.
“If children don’t go to school, they will be a problem for the country, and that means a different set of problems,” he said.
“The Luuka district launch of the PDM beneficiary data capture exercise signifies a crucial step in implementing the program. The combined efforts of government officials, local leadership, and the people of Luuka district hold immense potential for poverty reduction and sustainable development,” Col Katabazi added.
He further urged technical teams and leaders to provide guidance on enterprise selection to PDM beneficiaries. This ensures they avoid making financial mistakes and ultimately achieve poverty reduction.
Col Katabazi reaffirmed the government’s and ISO’s commitment to defending the country and its people. He emphasized the importance of the PDM program’s success and the need to avoid distractions from those advocating for regime change.
The Resident District Commissioner (RDC) of Luuka district, Ronald Katende, expressed his appreciation to the team from the Office of the President for choosing Luuka district to pilot the data capture program. He also commended the engineering team for successfully connecting over 130 farmers to solar-powered irrigation systems, boosting agricultural production in the district.
The Member of Parliament (MP) for Luuka South, Steven Bakubalwayo Kiisa, acknowledged the dedication of the district leadership and the PDM technical committee in ensuring the program’s success. He highlighted the historical poverty in the Busoga Region but noted some improvements, particularly in housing construction among sugarcane growers.
He emphasized his confidence that the PDM program would significantly uplift the living standards in Luuka district within two years.
MP Esther Mbulakubuza Mbayo expressed gratitude to the technical teams and stakeholders involved in implementing government projects.
She reaffirmed Luuka district’s unwavering support for President Museveni and emphasized the PDM program’s role in propelling the district’s development.
With support from the Office of the President, RDC Katende hosted the closing ceremony of a five-day launch program for the PDM beneficiary data capture exercise at the RDC’s office.
