By Alele Ronald
Alebtong, Uganda – Beneficiaries of government wealth-creation programs in Alebtong District have been cautioned to strictly follow program guidelines or risk legal action, as authorities intensify efforts to ensure accountability and sustainability of the revolving funds.
Speaking during a meeting with recipients of the Youth Livelihood Programme (YLP), Uganda Women Entrepreneurship Programme (UWEP), and Parish Development Model (PDM) at Angetta Sub-county on Monday, the Assistant Resident District Commissioner (RDC), Jimmy Okello, underscored the need for transparency and timely repayment of the loans.
“The government under President Yoweri Museveni is committed to ensuring that public resources reach the intended beneficiaries and are used for their intended purposes. Those who choose to abuse these opportunities or default without justification will be held accountable according to the law,” Okello warned.
He noted that defaulters and those who misuse the funds would face legal consequences under the government’s renewed anti-corruption and accountability campaign.
Okello also appealed to beneficiaries to work closely with Community Development Officers (CDOs) in their respective sub-counties, and to seek guidance whenever necessary. He stressed that proper utilization and repayment would enable more Ugandans to benefit from the revolving funds.
However, the Assistant RDC expressed concern over reports that some YLP beneficiaries had allegedly ignored technical advice and even blacklisted CDOs after receiving the funds.
“It is unfortunate that some beneficiaries have turned against the very officers who helped them access these government programs. Such actions undermine the objectives of the initiatives and will not be tolerated. Those involved will be identified and dealt with in accordance with the laws of Uganda,” he said.
Okello encouraged youth and women groups to invest the funds in productive enterprises that can boost household incomes, create jobs, and stimulate local economic development.
The meeting was attended by officials from the Office of the RDC, the District Internal Security Officer (DISO), the District Community Development Officer (DCDO), the senior CDO overseeing UWEP and YLP at the district level, as well as sub-county stakeholders and beneficiaries.
The YLP, UWEP, and PDM are government initiatives established to combat poverty, promote financial inclusion, and improve the livelihoods of vulnerable communities across the country.
