In the quest to harness technology for sustainable development, the Ministry of ICT and National Guidance handed over laptops on May 14, 2024, to ramp up efforts to digitise and streamline Parish Development Model (PDM) activities.
The Ministry of ICT launched the Parish Development Model Information System (PDMIS) in the Bukedi region on February 26, 2022, and it has served as the backbone of PDM after a successful deployment across all local governments in Uganda.
To date, PDMIS has registered 22.8 million Ugandans from 7.8 million households. Additionally, it has supported 10,594 PDM savings and credit cooperative organisations (SACCOS) and 157,006 enterprise groups.
The PDMIS currently boasts 1,739,590 users, with the goal of uplifting 39% of Uganda’s projected population living in subsistence economies to an inclusive money economy.
At the national level, PDMIS has facilitated and tracked the disbursement of 816 billion shillings to 834,790 PDM beneficiaries.
Over the past three years, the PDM approach has significantly increased community participation in development initiatives and is empowering communities, fostering economic growth, and promoting social cohesion across Uganda.
According to Aminah Zawedde, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of ICT and National Guidance, with the introduction of laptops, Uganda stands poised to amplify the impact of the PDM programme exponentially.
“The digitization of PDM activities will revolutionise data collection, analysis, and decision-making processes, enabling us to maximise the effectiveness and efficiency of our development interventions.” She said
Furthermore, the laptops will empower district-level accounting officers (CAOs) with the tools they need to collaborate seamlessly, communicate effectively, and manage projects efficiently.
“By streamlining administrative processes and reducing bureaucratic hurdles, we can ensure that resources are deployed where they are needed most, driving sustainable development outcomes at the parish level,the Permanent Secretary said.
This digital journey signifies the government of Uganda’s commitment to harnessing technology as a force for good.
The potential of the laptops will empower communities, foster innovation, and build a brighter future for all Ugandans.
