Soroti PDM beneficiaries given tips on wealth creation

SOROTI, October 4, 2024 — Charles Ocici, Executive Director of Enterprise Uganda, Charlies Ocici has advised beneficiaries of the Parish Development Model [PDM] in Soroti district and Soroti City on effective ways to utilise the programme’s funds for wealth creation.

Speaking at a four-day entrepreneurship clinic that concluded yesterday at St. Pope John Paul II Shalom Youth Centre in Soroti City, Ocici told over 1,500 participants that wealth often arises from recognising business opportunities within community challenges.

He highlighted that negative mindsets, mediocrity, and the pursuit of mere happiness can hinder wealth creation. “Excuses related to being an orphan, a widow, lacking capital, or having a poor educational background should not deter anyone from embarking on the journey to create wealth,” he said, stressing the importance of a positive attitude towards work despite challenges.

Ocici cautioned PDM beneficiaries against mismanaging the Shs 1 million provided by the government under the PDM, warning that such mismanagement could exacerbate poverty in their households. He encouraged participants to explore simple yet lucrative business ventures to improve their financial inflows.

He emphasised that individuals who cannot control their expenditures will remain poor, regardless of how much financial aid they receive from the government or other sources. He also warned against idleness and reliance on handouts for survival.

John Baptist Emukoki, a Councillor representing Aloet Ward in Soroti City East and a training participant, said the training by Enterprise Uganda was timely, especially the PDM encourages the beneficiaries to start businesses in the agricultural value chain such as general trade, piggery, poultry keeping and beekeeping among others.

On his part, George Tukei, the Commercial Officer for Soroti City, noted that the training also targeted political leaders, businesspersons, and technical staff in Soroti district and Soroti City.

He noted that the  knowledge gained from the training is a game changer that should enhance the businesses of PDM beneficiaries. The PDM, launched in February 2022, aims to transition 3.5mln households from subsistence to a cash economy.

Enterprise Uganda’s mandate includes creating and nurturing special interest groups, such as women, youth, people with disabilities, and senior citizens, alongside subsistence households (39 percent) under the PDM, to develop them into effective entrepreneurs.

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