Kikuube disburses Shs 1.45bln in PDM funds to new beneficiaries
KIKUUBE, August 29, 2025 – Authorities in Kikuube District have commenced the disbursement of Shs 1.45 billion to new beneficiaries under the Parish Development Model [PDM].
The PDM, a government initiative launched in February 2022, aims to transition 3.5 million households from subsistence farming to participation in the money economy. Beneficiaries of the programme receive Shs 1 million each in the form of a soft loan to invest in selected enterprises such as coffee, piggery, poultry keeping, fruit growing, and dairy farming, among others.
The disbursement exercise began earlier this month in the sub-counties of Kabwoya, Bugambe, and Kiziranfumbi, targeting a total of 29 parishes within the district.
Dr Barnabus Ntume, the Kikuube District Production Officer, confirmed to this reporter recently that each parish is allocated Shs 50 million. The funds are distributed to beneficiaries organised into enterprise groups. He further explained that the funds were received in May and represent the final tranche for the 2024/2025 financial year.
“The funding was released to enable our people to participate in the second planting season, which typically begins in early August,” Ntume stated.
He added that all beneficiaries undergo practical, hands-on training in their chosen enterprises prior to receiving the funds. This training initiative was introduced after it became apparent that many beneficiaries in the first phase lacked the necessary skills in enterprise selection and financial management.
Canon Edward Musingye, the Kikuube District Chief Administrative Officer [CAO], said the district receives Shs 2.9bln annually for the programme. To date, over Shs 8.96bln has been disbursed from the central government, benefiting 8,960 individuals across the 29 parishes.
He emphasised that the ongoing disbursement reflects the government’s commitment to lifting Ugandans out of poverty and transitioning them into the money economy. He also cautioned beneficiaries against misusing the funds on non-productive activities.
Kikuube District LCV Chairperson, Peter Banura, underscored the importance of investing in high-return enterprises such as livestock rearing, poultry farming, and the cultivation of cash crops like coffee and cocoa.
“All this money is being released to help our people engage in productive activities and shift into the money economy. It is therefore vital that beneficiaries are trained to utilise the funds effectively and invest in profitable ventures,” he said.
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