“No More Loans for the Poor”: Budadiri East MP Nakiyi Demands Radical PDM Overhaul and Special Help for Bugisu Ahead of State of the Nation Address

Kampala – As the nation prepares for the highly anticipated State of the Nation Address, Hon. Nakiyi Julius, Member of Parliament for Budadiri East, has issued a strong call for transformative changes to Uganda’s flagship poverty alleviation programme, the Parish Development Model (PDM).

Speaking to the media, the legislator said he intends to vigorously advocate in Parliament for the conversion of the PDM into a non-refundable financing programme (grants) to better support vulnerable households and fast-track socio-economic transformation across the country.

“The PDM should be turned into a non-refundable financing programme,” Hon. Nakiyi said. “This will genuinely empower the most vulnerable households rather than burdening them with loans they struggle to repay.”

Hon. Nakiyi also highlighted concerns over the current distribution of PDM funds, calling for greater equity in allocations at the parish level. He argued that funding should take into account differences in population sizes to ensure fairness and maximum impact.

“Equal funding regardless of population is not equity. Parishes with larger populations should receive proportional resources so that no one is left behind,” he emphasised.

In a powerful push for regional development, the MP further demanded affirmative action for the Bugisu Sub-region, citing its unique challenges stemming from its mountainous terrain.

“Bugisu’s geography presents distinct development hurdles that require special government intervention. Our people face higher costs and greater difficulties in infrastructure, agriculture, and service delivery. We need targeted support to match these realities,” Hon. Nakiyi stated.

Political observers see Hon. Nakiyi’s interventions as timely, coming just before the President’s address, which is expected to outline key government priorities for the coming year. His proposals blend calls for pro-poor policy reform with region-specific development equity — issues likely to spark robust debate when Parliament reconvenes.
The legislator’s remarks have already generated discussion among development partners and local leaders in eastern Uganda, with many welcoming the focus on making government programmes more responsive to ground realities.
As the country looks forward to the State of the Nation Address, Hon. Nakiyi’s message is clear: true transformation demands bold, fair, and inclusive policies that leave no region or household behind.