President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has introduced a new financial support initiative under the Parish Development Model (PDM) to help unemployed university graduates and religious leaders start their own income-generating projects. The move aims to reduce dependency on government jobs and encourage self-employment among educated Ugandans.
Speaking to residents in Soroti, Museveni said the new fund will offer affordable loans to university graduates who have been jobless for more than two years. The goal is to help them turn their education into practical solutions that create jobs and drive innovation. He emphasized that the country’s development depends on shifting from job-seeking to job creation.
Museveni explained that the government’s focus is to empower citizens to become economically independent. He said that many young people have great ideas and skills but lack the capital to start their own ventures. The new program is designed to close that gap.
Under the same initiative, religious leaders and fishermen will also receive financial support of up to fifteen million shillings each to help them start or expand income-generating projects in their communities. The President said the program is part of broader government reforms aimed at uplifting Ugandans from subsistence living to commercial productivity at the parish level.
Museveni also stated that involving religious leaders in the fund will help strengthen their role in promoting community development and encouraging positive attitudes toward work and wealth creation among their followers.
While commending the people of Teso for their hard work and determination, the President expressed disappointment over the limited support his government has received in the region, despite significant investments in infrastructure, education, and social services. He urged residents to focus on unity and collective progress rather than political divisions.
Museveni concluded by calling on the youth and all Ugandans to take advantage of the new opportunities under the Parish Development Model, saying that only through unity, innovation, and hard work can the nation achieve lasting economic growth and prosperity.