Lira City –In a significant move towards promoting transparency and accountability in government projects, key officials gathered at the Lira City Council Hall on June 14th, 2024, to address the critical issues of financial literacy, mindset change, and anti-corruption measures in the implementation of the Parish Development Model (PDM).
Led by the Deputy Inspector of Government, Dr. Patricia Achan Okiria, the meeting brought together various stakeholders, including government leaders, workers’ representatives, and local community members, to discuss the effective management of PDM funds and the need to combat corruption.
Sarah Awor Angweri, the workers’ representative at the Lira City Council, emphasized the urgent need for financial literacy among citizens, highlighting the importance of educating people on financial management to ensure the effective utilization of PDM funds. She also called for investment in mindset change programs to alter the perception of government funds and development projects.
Dr. Okiria stressed the importance of proper utilization of PDM funds, urging citizens to report any instances of fund misappropriation to the regional office. She assured that her office is committed to sanctioning, arresting, investigating, and prosecuting those found guilty of misusing funds. Dr. Okiria clarified that PDM funds are loans that must be repaid, emphasizing the need for engagement with lower-level communities to ensure effective fund utilization.
RCM Okello Orik, the Lira District LCV Chairman, commended his team for their integrity in managing PDM funds but acknowledged challenges, including corruption among some PDM SACCO leaders. He attributed this corruption to the lack of facilitation funds for PDM handlers, suggesting that anti-corruption efforts should begin with the Ministry of Finance.
The meeting was attended by notable dignitaries, including Proscovia Ayo Otyek, the Lira District Assistant RDC, the Chief Administrative Officer (CAO), and various Parish Chiefs, demonstrating the commitment of local leaders to addressing transparency and corruption issues.
The meeting concluded with key recommendations, including enhancing financial literacy, investing in mindset change initiatives, fostering community engagement, intensifying anti-corruption measures, and securing facilitation funds for PDM handlers.
This meeting marked a significant step towards promoting transparency, accountability, and integrity in government projects, ensuring that funds are used effectively to benefit local communities.