SOROTI DISTRICT OFFICIALS EQUIPPED WITH TABLETS TO ENHANCE PARISH DEVELOPMENT MODEL IMPLEMENTATION

SOROTI DISTRICT OFFICIALS EQUIPPED WITH TABLETS TO ENHANCE PARISH DEVELOPMENT MODEL IMPLEMENTATION

Soroti District has taken a significant step toward improving service delivery by equipping parish chiefs and Community Development Officers (CDOs) with tablet devices to support the implementation of the Parish Development Model (PDM).

 This initiative, spearheaded by the Uganda Bureau of Statistics (UBOS), aims to enhance efficiency and streamline government operations at the grassroots level.

Parish chiefs, CDOs, and parish SACCO chairpersons received the tablets. These devices will play a crucial role in facilitating real-time data collection, registration of beneficiaries, and processing information critical to the success of the PDM.

The Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) of Soroti, Elly Piwang, highlighted the importance of these devices in addressing challenges faced at the parish level. "There were concerns from people at the parish level, particularly the chiefs, about the lack of adequate devices for data collection and beneficiary registration under the PDM," Piwang explained.

 "Now that we have these tablets, our work will be significantly easier. We can collect data in real time, process it instantly, and make timely decisions to improve service delivery."

Piwang also noted that sharing the devices used in the recent census exercise would reduce government operational costs, particularly in research and data collection. This cost-saving measure aligns with the government’s broader vision of optimizing resources to enhance public services.

Speaking during the handover ceremony, Deputy Resident District Commissioner (RDC) Ronald Bakak emphasized the government’s commitment to digitizing its operations. He urged the recipients to use the tablets responsibly and effectively to achieve their intended objectives.

 "The distribution of these tablets underscores the government’s vision to digitize operations and enhance efficiency in public service delivery. These devices are not just tools; they represent our commitment to better governance and improved livelihoods for our communities," Bakak stated.

Local leaders and stakeholders have expressed optimism about this development, believing it will address long-standing challenges in data management and improve service delivery.

Samuel Enangu, the District Vice Chairperson LC 5, said that with this initiative, the Parish Chiefs should now set a precedent for other districts across the country, showcasing the potential of technology in transforming public administration and community development.

The Parish Development Model is a strategic initiative by the government aimed at transforming subsistence households into money-making enterprises. By equipping local officials with the tools they need, the government hopes to enhance the program's impact and ensure that resources reach the intended beneficiaries.

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Abraham Ekwaru, Communication Officer