Farmers in Kaliro District, particularly beneficiaries of the Parish Development Model (PDM) funds in Bugoto and Bumwoza parishes, are reeling from losses exceeding Shs30 million due to disruptions in an online app associated with Post Bank. The Wendi App, introduced in October 2023 to facilitate transactions between farmers and Post Bank, has left many farmers distressed after their funds disappeared without a trace.
According to Mr. Vincent Mukisa, the Kaliro District Commercial Officer, over 86 groups were registered to benefit from the PDM, with Bugoto and Bumwoza Parishes being the hardest hit. Farmers like Mr. Fredrick Ngobi from Bugoto parish recount the frustrations of not receiving expected payments despite using the Wendi App, which promised convenience and efficiency.
Mr. Ngobi’s account reflects a common experience among affected farmers, who turned to local authorities and law enforcement for recourse. However, their attempts to seek assistance from the Bugoto Parish Chief and the police were met with further disappointment, as promises to resolve the issue went unfulfilled.
The Kaliro District leadership, led by Mr. Elijah Kagoda, expressed concern over the detrimental impact of the Wendi App, which acted as an intermediary between banks and farmers, leading to financial losses. Mr. Kagoda announced plans to seek guidance from the Ministry of Local Government on addressing the situation, as the ownership and accountability of the Wendi App remain unclear.
Meanwhile, Kaliro Resident District Commissioner, Mr. Frederick Bangu, vowed to investigate the matter and pursue those responsible for the technological malfunction. Post Bank’s Regional Head of Distribution, Mr. Martin Lukyamuzi, assured that the Wendi App was developed with security features tailored to the needs and behaviors of users. However, investigations are underway to determine the cause of the app malfunction and address the farmers’ grievances.
