Museveni Orders PDM Chiefs to Stop Land Requirement as Youth Complain of Access Barriers
Rwampara, Uganda — President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has issued a strict nationwide directive to all Parish Development Model (PDM) officials, ordering them to immediately halt the practice of demanding land ownership as a condition for Ugandans to access PDM funds.
Speaking during his visit to Rwampara District, President Museveni condemned the practice as illegal, discriminatory, and contrary to the core spirit of the PDM, which aims to transition households from subsistence to commercial production. He warned that the land requirement has been used by some leaders to frustrate young people and vulnerable populations who qualify for financial support but do not own land.
Land Requirement ‘Not in the Guidelines’ — Museveni
The President emphasized that no official has the authority to introduce personal conditions that are not part of the government’s program design. He revealed that his office has received several complaints from youth and women who were turned away by PDM committees because they lacked land titles or proof of land ownership.
“Museveni insisted that such barriers are unacceptable and defeat the entire purpose of PDM,” local leaders reported during the engagement.
Thousands of Youth Blocked From Accessing Funds
According to community reports presented to the President, many young people are still unable to access the UGX 1 million PDM enterprise funds because they either live on family land, rent, or are still establishing themselves economically.
The President highlighted that the country cannot uplift the next generation if officials tasked with implementing a transformational program are creating illegal roadblocks. He urged district and parish-level leaders to return to the core guidelines and ensure that every eligible Ugandan can benefit.
Officials Warned Against Misusing Authority
Museveni also cautioned PDM leaders against manipulating or misrepresenting the program for personal or political interests. He directed Resident District Commissioners (RDCs), Chief Administrative Officers (CAOs), and PDM supervisors to ensure strict enforcement of the new directive and to take disciplinary action against any official who continues to demand land documentation.
Communities Welcome the Order
Residents of Rwampara and surrounding areas expressed relief, saying the President’s intervention has restored hope for youth, women, and low-income households who have been struggling to access the funds.
Leaders encouraged potential beneficiaries to reapply under the corrected guidelines and assured them that the program is open to all, regardless of land ownership status.
