Lira, Uganda – Senior Presidential Advisor on Lango Affairs, Hon. Sam Engola, has commended the Parish Development Model (PDM) for transforming lives in Lira District, urging locals to embrace the initiative as a key driver of economic empowerment.
His remarks came during a major PDM event in Amach Town Council on January 28, 2025, where beneficiaries shared inspiring success stories of how the program has lifted them from poverty.
Speaking to hundreds of residents, Engola reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring every Ugandan transitions from subsistence to commercial farming.
He emphasized that PDM is not just a government intervention but a movement that will permanently eradicate household poverty.
“The NRM government, under the able leadership of President Yoweri Museveni, is determined to economically empower every Ugandan. The Parish Development Model is here to stay, and we must all take full advantage of it. Our people must move away from subsistence farming and embrace commercial ventures,” Engola said.
Engola’s remarks were echoed by Vicky Apio, a farmer from Alingiri Village, Banya Ward, Amach Town Council, Erute South and a proud PDM beneficiary.
Apio testified that with UGX 1 million received from the program, she invested in maize farming, purchasing 15 sacks of seeds.
Her harvest of 45 bags of maize earned her UGX 2.8 million, enabling her to expand into livestock farming and save for future projects.
“This program has changed my life. I can now afford school fees, improve my home, and plan for bigger agricultural projects. I encourage others to embrace it,” Apio stated.
Her testimony drew admiration from Engola, who urged more locals to utilize the funds effectively.
“These success stories prove that PDM is working. We want to see more people like Apio, who take advantage of this program to uplift themselves and their families. The money given under PDM is not for luxury; it is meant for wealth creation,” he emphasized.
Meanwhile, Lira District Woman MP, Hon. Linda Auma, who also addressed the gathering in Amach, applauded Museveni for his tireless efforts in ensuring government programs reach the grassroots.
On January 31, President Museveni concluded his nationwide tour of PDM at Barlonyo, where he expressed satisfaction with the program’s impact.
He commended leaders for their role in mobilizing communities and ensuring that PDM benefits reach the people.
“The government has done its part. Now, it is up to the beneficiaries to work hard and grow their businesses. This money will not go back to the government—it is for the people to improve their lives,” Museveni stated.
As the tour ends, Sam Engola has emerged as a leading voice in championing PDM’s success in Lira District, reinforcing his commitment to the socio-economic transformation of the region.
His call for locals to embrace PDM is resonating widely, with many seeing the program as a pathway to prosperity.
