By URN
The Minister for Older Persons, Dominic Gidudu Mafabi, has emphasized the importance of the Parish Development Model (PDM) in empowering elderly citizens to achieve financial independence and overcome poverty. Speaking during a recent visit to Kitgum Municipality, Gidudu addressed the widespread challenges faced by older persons, many of whom are perceived as burdens by younger family members after retirement. He underscored the potential of the PDM to transform this narrative by addressing their economic needs and improving their quality of life.
“The PDM is a key opportunity for older persons to engage in productive economic activities and regain their dignity through financial self-reliance,” he said. His remarks followed appeals from older persons in the region, who raised concerns over their living conditions, including the lack of adequate housing materials such as iron sheets. Rose Canokura, the female councillor representing older persons at Kitgum Municipal Council, said many elderly individuals live under leaking roofs and in substandard shelters.
During engagements with local leaders, including Alfred Omona, chairperson of the NRM Older Persons League in Pader District, concerns were raised over the insufficiency of the UGX 25,000 monthly grant provided under the Senior Citizens’ Grant (SAGE) program. Omona described the amount as inadequate for daily needs and called for broader support mechanisms. In response, Minister Gidudu acknowledged the limitations of the SAGE program but reiterated that the PDM provides a more sustainable solution.
“The PDM enables older persons to become part of economic production again, helping them to generate income and reduce dependency,” Gidudu explained. The Parish Development Model is a government initiative aimed at transforming livelihoods by promoting economic activity at the grassroots level. It supports community enterprises through access to capital and advisory services, targeting the poorest households.
While reaffirming the government’s continued commitment to the SAGE program, Gidudu strongly advocated for increased engagement of older persons in the PDM, calling it a more practical and long-term pathway to financial freedom. “We must move beyond seeing older persons only as beneficiaries. Through programs like the PDM, they can become active participants in their own development,” he added.
