KANUNGU, UGANDA – The Resident District Commissioner (RDC) for Kanungu, Mr. Ambrose Mwesigye, has urged civil servants to take a stand against corruption in government programs designed to uplift the poor.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!The RDC made the call last Friday at the Kanungu District Council Hall in a meeting attended by Parish Chiefs, Town Agents, Community Development Officers (CDOs), and GISO representatives.
In his remarks, RDC Mwesigye confirmed there are alarming reports of bribery and the misallocation of funds from the government’s poverty alleviation programs, specifically the Parish Development Model (PDM).
He warned that government benefits like PDM funds, intended to support those with no income, should not require any upfront payment, citing concerning reports of solicitation from villagers.
“The funds are made available by the government for free, to be repaid after one year with a six percent interest rate. No additional funds should be demanded from anyone,” RDC Mwesigye stated.
He further encouraged the community to gather evidence against culprits, warning that the first person found guilty would face serious consequences as a deterrent to others, while also reassuring the public of his constant availability for communication.
Mr. Awuye Abdallah, the Chief Administrative Officer of Kanungu, pledged to work closely with security teams to hold accountable any officials involved in extortion.
He emphasized that officials must ensure the effective implementation of poverty programs in Kanungu, raising concerns about data manipulation for extortion and underscoring the need for transparency.
“It is our responsibility as government employees to ensure that poverty is alleviated in Kanungu through PDM and Emyooga programs. Effecting government initiatives is our duty,” Mr. Awuye stressed.
Representing the participants, Robina Sesoro, a senior CDO, highlighted the essential roles of CDOs in PDM activities, including data entry and beneficiary sensitization.
She reaffirmed her commitment to ensuring that the right individuals benefit from these government programs, vowing to eliminate any misallocation and guarantee the aid reaches its intended recipients.
The Kanungu District leadership continues to stress the importance of addressing these malpractices to ensure that government resources effectively reach the intended beneficiaries, paving the way for sustainable community development.