KOTIDO, October 14, 2025 — Leaders of Parish Development Model Savings and Credit Cooperative Organisations [PDM SACCOs] in Kotido district can now approve loan requests more swiftly, thanks to a new initiative by the Uganda Communications Commission [UCC].
The UCC recently donated digital tablets to SACCO leaders to facilitate instant loan approvals, a move aimed at accelerating economic empowerment among the district’s active poor, whom the government aims to transition from a subsistence-based economy to a money economy through investment in the agricultural value chain.
Previously, the loan approval process was plagued by delays and inefficiencies, as SACCO leaders relied on manual methods to gather beneficiary data, approve loans, and open accounts.
Jolly Lokawa, Secretary of the Kotido North PDM SACCO, reflected on the challenges of the old system, stating, “The lengthy approval times discouraged many potential borrowers and hampered our efforts to foster financial inclusion.”
Quinto Adyaka, Chairperson of the Kotido Rural PDM SACCO in the Central Division, echoed similar concerns saying, “We often found ourselves playing a waiting game, reliant on external figures who sometimes mismanaged data entry, resulting in applications being rejected or delayed.”
This cumbersome process not only frustrated SACCO leaders but also denied many community members timely access to crucial funds.
Elizabeth Kapel, a Town Agent in Kotido Municipality, expressed optimism about the expected improvements. She said: “Now that the leaders have been equipped with their own devices, I believe the disbursement of PDM funds will be faster and more accurate.”
Kapel noted that the earlier dependence on parish chiefs’ tablets often led to miscommunication and errors, which the new initiative aims to eliminate.
However, the UCC’s initiative is about more than just faster loan approvals. Speaking at the handover ceremony held recently, Francis Obita, the Kotido District Commercial Officer, highlighted the importance of the received tablets.
“The aim is to enhance digital literacy and financial inclusion across Kotido. These tablets will revolutionise the operations of SACCOs, moving the active poor from a subsistence economy to a money economy, thereby fostering sustainable economic growth,” said Obita.
Obita said the tablets will improve member communication, streamline loan tracking, and provide access to essential financial literacy materials.
With internet connectivity, PDM SACCO leaders will now be able to access resources on financial management best practices and maintain close links with government programmes and financial institutions.
According to a circular from Golooba Lwanga, Manager of the Financial Inclusion Pillar for the Parish Development Model at the Ministry of Finance, Planning, and Economic Development, Kotido district received a total of 61 tablets.
The devices were distributed to key officials, including the Chief Administrative Officer, District Commercial Officer, PDM Focal Point Person, and 58 SACCO leaders. In Kotido Municipality, the Town Clerk, Commercial Officer, PDM Focal Point Person, and representatives from 19 wards were also beneficiaries.
Each recipient received a package comprising a tablet, charger, and solar charger, ensuring the devices remain operational even in areas with limited access to electricity.
While there is widespread excitement about the tablet distribution, some community members have urged caution.
Mary Atuma, a local businesswoman and PDM SACCO member, stressed the importance of ongoing capacity-building:
“It’s vital that these leaders not only receive tablets but also continuous training to maximise their potential. Technology is only as effective as the person using it.”
As Kotido district embraces this digital transformation, hopes are high that the streamlined loan approval process will empower residents and stimulate local economic development.
With the right tools and training, Obita believes PDM SACCOs in the region have the potential to redefine the financial landscape, ushering in a new era of accessibility, efficiency, and inclusive growth. The UCC’s distribution of tablets marks a pivotal moment in Kotido’s economic journey and sets the stage for a more digitally connected and financially empowered community.
https://thecooperator.news/ucc-distributes-tablets-to-pdm-sacco-leaders-in-sebei-districts/
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