Alebtong, Uganda – The Deputy Resident District Commissioner (RDC) of Alebtong, Mathias Lutwama, has conducted a fact-finding mission today February 10, 2025 to assess the feasibility and impact of government programs among NRA veterans from Abako and Awei sub-counties.
During the engagement, attended by 100 veterans, Lutwama emphasized the importance of their participation in national transformation efforts and addressed their concerns regarding government support.
Key Findings from the Engagement;
1. Positive Impact of Emyooga SACCO: The veterans expressed their appreciation for the government’s financial support, noting that their Emyooga SACCO has so far received UGX 100 million. They acknowledged that this funding has enabled them to borrow and invest in various income-generating activities, contributing to their economic stability.
2. Challenges Facing Widows and Orphans: The veterans raised concerns over the welfare of widows and orphans of deceased NRA veterans. They highlighted the urgent need for social welfare programs to support these vulnerable families, ensuring they live decent lives despite the loss of their loved ones.
3. Call for a Special PDM Fund for Veterans: The veterans appealed to the government to establish a special Parish Development Model (PDM) fund tailored to their unique needs. They argued that such an initiative would enhance their economic well-being and ensure targeted support for their community.
In response, Lutwama reaffirmed the government’s commitment to economic transformation and transparency in fund distribution.
“Dear heroic members of the NRA revolution, I am glad you are substantive participants in the arena of transformation. Government this month of January has sent UGX 50 million per parish, with no bank charges for any beneficiary. We are going to ensure that transparency is enforced for all those eligible,” Lutwama stated.
He further encouraged the veterans to unite under the NRM’s development programs, emphasizing that their collective strength in embracing government initiatives would lead to greater success.
“Your center of gravity as NRA veterans is military strategy. By coming together to embrace NRM programs, you will succeed by all means,” he added.
The engagement was also attended by Assistant RDC Okello Jimmy and area councilors from Abako and Awei sub-counties, who pledged to work closely with the veterans in implementing government programs effectively.
This initiative is part of the RDC’s broader mandate to ensure that government programs reach intended beneficiaries and contribute to the socio-economic transformation of all citizens, particularly those who played a key role in Uganda’s liberation struggle.