Mr. Bekunda Asa, a resident of Kamwezi B, Kabwohe Ward in Sheema Municipality, has emerged as a notable example of how the Parish Development Model (PDM) is improving household incomes and transforming rural livelihoods in Uganda.

Through the PDM initiative, Mr. Bekunda received UGX 1,000,000, which he invested strategically in his banana plantation. He used the funds to purchase high-quality manure and mulching materials, significantly improving soil fertility and crop productivity.

Before benefiting from PDM, Mr. Bekunda earned approximately UGX 100,000 per month from his plantation, which was barely sufficient to meet basic family needs. However, after reinvesting the PDM funds into improved farming practices, his monthly income has increased to about UGX 1,000,000, representing a tenfold growth in earnings.

The impact of this transformation extends beyond income generation. Mr. Bekunda has since:
Created employment opportunities for three workers on his plantation, contributing to local job creation.
Improved his children’s access to quality education due to increased household income.

Strengthened household food security and accumulated capital for further expansion.

Diversified into poultry farming as an additional source of income.
Mr. Bekunda and his family expressed gratitude to the Government of Uganda and His Excellency President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni for introducing the Parish Development Model, which they credit for shifting them from subsistence farming to commercial agriculture.

Report by Muhumuza Michael
ONC Coordinator, Sheema District