PDM accountability meeting in Moyo reveals major challenges in programme implementation
MOYO, October 26, 2025 – A crucial accountability meeting convened by Moyo district Assistant Commercial Officer, Dominic Amegavu, has exposed significant challenges in the management and implementation of the Parish Development Model [ PDM ] across several parishes.
The meeting, held recently at Moyo district headquarters, brought together key stakeholders from Ramogi, Lea, Aluru, and Ebikwa parishes, including parish chiefs, parish supervisors, development committee members, local council leaders, and agricultural extension workers, and other stakeholders. The high-level attendance underscored the growing concern over transparency and accountability in the use of PDM funds.
Each parish reportedly received a total of Shs 307 million, disbursed in eight batches to support local economic development initiatives. However, discussions revealed that poor record-keeping and weak financial management had undermined progress.
“We discovered that some treasurers and secretaries could not account for how funds were distributed or utilised,” said Amegavu. “This raises serious questions about transparency and accountability at the parish level.”
Concerns over mismanagement and corruption allegations
Participants voiced frustration over alleged corruption and mismanagement within some PDM committees. Several beneficiaries reported irregularities in fund allocation and favouritism among board members.
In Lea Parish, Ms Alice Baati’a was accused of unfairly sharing funds, while Silver Maabwi, the PDM SACCO Chairperson, faced allegations of bribery and favouritism in selecting beneficiaries. The officials denied the allegations.
“Some people were left out simply because they had disagreements with board members,” one parish leader remarked. “This undermines the spirit of the programme.”
The first two funding batches reportedly faced reduced allocations following beneficiary assessments, while many individuals registered in later rounds never received funds.
Operational and technical challenges
The meeting also highlighted logistical challenges, including difficulties in maintaining digital records due to a lack of data bundles for the tablets provided under the PDM system.
“We were given tablets and solar chargers, but we have no budget for data,” explained one parish treasurer. “Without internet access, we can’t update records or submit reports.”
Amegavu pledged to address these issues, saying, “We are working with the district to ensure that every parish has the resources needed to operate the digital management system effectively.”
Loan recovery and training gaps
Since the PDM operates as a revolving fund, SACCO treasurers raised concerns about difficulties in loan recovery, especially as many beneficiaries struggled to use the funds effectively amid widespread poverty and hunger.
One beneficiary, Chandiga, shared his experience: “I received one million shillings, which I used to buy and feed poultry. It’s not enough to start farming, but it helps those already in small-scale agriculture.”
While beneficiaries received some agricultural training, the meeting revealed that financial literacy training was never conducted, leaving many ill-equipped to manage loans responsibly.
“Without financial management skills, even well-intentioned projects are bound to fail,” Amegavu noted.
Reforms and next steps
The meeting concluded with a call for improved financial discipline, transparency, and community training to ensure the PDM achieves its core goal of poverty alleviation through parish-level empowerment.
A new vetting process for beneficiaries will begin on October 28-31, starting in Ramogi parish, to restore fairness and credibility to the selection process.
“We must rebuild trust in the programme,” Amegavu emphasised. “With the right oversight and accountability, the PDM can still transform our communities as originally intended.
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