In a bid to ensure the effective implementation of the Parish Development Model (PDM) at the grassroots level, the Soroti District recently welcomed the Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of ICT & National Guidance, Dr. Aminah Zawedde, on a visit to assess the progress of the Parish Development Management Information System (PDMIS). This visit marked a significant step towards enhancing transparency, accountability, and efficiency in local governance within the Soroti district.
Dr. Zawedde’s visit commenced with a comprehensive meeting with the parish chiefs in the Teso region, where the PDMIS is being used for data collection, disbursement of funds, and community profiling. Accompanied by the Chief Administrative Officer (CAO), Resident District Commissioner (RDC), district officials, and technical experts, the Permanent Secretary precisely examined the functionality and integration of the system within the local administrative framework.
During the inspection, Dr. Zawedde interacted closely with the parish chiefs, community leaders, and technical personnel involved in the operation of the PDMIS. She reviewed data collection processes and the utilization of the system for planning, and decision-making purposes and also addressed any queries the members in attendance had regarding the system. Talks also focused on obstacles faced and methods for achieving even greater success.
“I commend the efforts being made by your teams and the various parish chiefs to advance PDM. We appreciate your initiative in learning how to use PDMIS to assist SACCOs and beneficiaries and for putting the system improvements’ accompanying modifications into practice,” stated Dr. Aminah Zawedde.
The following successes and difficulties were brought to light during the visit:
1. Better Data Management: The PDMIS has greatly improved parish-level data management related to development, facilitating local government decision-making that is well-informed.
2. Enhanced Planning: Stakeholders noted how the technology has expedited the planning procedure, making it possible to identify community needs and prioritise projects more precisely.
3. Community Involvement: Dr. Zawedde emphasized the value of participatory governance in guiding development activities and applauded the community members’ active participation in data collecting and project monitoring.
4. Infrastructure Challenges: Despite the advancements, significant obstacles to the PDMIS’s ideal operation have been identified. These obstacles include a shortage of devices, limited connectivity to the internet, and power supply.
In response to the observations made during the visit, Dr. Aminah Zawedde pledged continued support from the Government of Uganda to address infrastructure gaps and build the capacity of local stakeholders to effectively utilizing the PDMIS. She emphasized the importance of sustained collaboration between government agencies, development partners, and communities to overcome existing challenges and maximize the system’s potential for driving inclusive development.
The Permanent Secretary’s inspection of the Parish Development Management Information System in Soroti District highlights Uganda’s government’s dedication to bolstering decentralised governance and advancing grassroots development. While significant progress has been achieved, ongoing efforts are required to address existing challenges and ensure the system’s sustainability and effectiveness in facilitating local development initiatives. Through concerted action and partnership, Soroti District remains poised to harness the full benefits of the PDMIS in advancing socio-economic growth.
