Soroti youth urged to utilise PDM funds wisely
SOROTI, January 20, 2026 – Several youth in Soroti City are set to receive 30 percent of the Parish Development Model [PDM] funds allocated them as implementers roll out the fourth phase of the government programme aimed at moving poor households into the money economy through investment in agricultural value chains.
However, beneficiaries have been cautioned to use the funds responsibly by investing in income-generating ventures such as piggery, poultry farming and coffee production to enable timely repayment of the soft loans.
Addressing beneficiaries from Senior Quarters Ward in Soroti City West at Baptist Church on Monday, the Deputy Resident City Commissioner for Soroti City West, James Small Chemutai, warned youth against spending the funds on non-essential items.
“Do not misuse our money on school fees, nails, phones or parties. If you are a student, pick a viable project and ensure you develop yourself,” Chemutai cautioned.
He commended the beneficiaries for their organisation and for embracing government programmes, noting that residents of Soroti City West have greatly benefited from the PDM.
The Chairperson of the Parish Development Committees [PDCs], Simon Okure, said funds had already been disbursed to many beneficiaries, urging those yet to receive support to prepare well and use the money for its intended purpose.
He warned that a task force has been established to recover misused funds, cautioning beneficiaries against taking the money and disappearing into their villages.
Okure thanked PDM SACCO leaders for their commitment and encouraged them to maintain the momentum.
“I appeal to everyone in Senior Quarters not to lag behind because this area is known for having elites,” he said.
Meanwhile, area councillor Silver Edoku emphasised that PDM implementation should remain non-partisan, stressing that the programme is meant to benefit all citizens regardless of political affiliation.
“It will make me happy to see everyone benefiting without considering party colours,” Edoku said.
Soroti City Commercial Officer George William Tukei expressed confidence that once the selection process is complete, the city will proceed with further disbursement of funds.
He explained that new guidelines require proper identification of beneficiaries, mandatory training and at least 90 per cent attendance for participants to receive certificates and qualify for funding.
“I encourage people to attend the trainings because they are crucial. Less than 90 per cent attendance means you have not completed the course – simple as that,” Tukei said.
Soroti City is currently in the fourth phase of PDM disbursement, with each ward receiving Shs 50 million, while an additional Shs 50 million is expected later this quarter.
The PDM was officially launched on February 26, 2022 in Kibuku district by President Yoweri Museveni as a government strategy to transform subsistence households into participants in the money economy by decentralising service delivery to the parish level.
https://thecooperator.news/soroti-hospital-receives-shs-21-7bln-medical-equipment-from-jica/
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