Speaker of Parliament Rallies Support for Government Programs in Gogonyo County, Pallisa District

Pallisa, Uganda

The Speaker of the Parliament of Uganda, Rt. Hon. Anita Annet Among, has called on communities in Gogonyo County, Pallisa District, to embrace and fully utilize government programs aimed at improving livelihoods and eradicating poverty.

The Speaker made these remarks earlier today while attending a community sensitization gathering hosted by Hon. Derrick Orone, the area Member of Parliament. The event attracted hundreds of residents, local leaders, and opinion shapers who turned up to engage with their leaders and learn more about government opportunities available to them.

In her address, Rt. Hon. Among emphasized the importance of grassroots participation in national development initiatives. She highlighted flagship government programs such as the Parish Development Model (PDM) and Emyooga, noting that these interventions were specifically tailored to empower ordinary Ugandans through access to affordable credit, skills development, and enterprise support.

“These programs were not created for show; they are here for you—the farmers, the traders, the youth, and the women—to improve your livelihoods,” the Speaker said.“I urge each one of you to actively engage with your local leaders and benefit from them.”

She further called upon local government officials to ensure transparency and accountability in the implementation of these programs, stressing that the success of PDM and Emyooga depends largely on community trust and proper management of public resources.

Hon. Derrick Orone, who hosted the Speaker, praised her unwavering support for rural development and lauded her for taking the time to meet with the people of Gogonyo. He reiterated his commitment to ensuring that his constituents have access to all available government support.

“It is a great honor to host the Speaker in Gogonyo. Her visit is a sign that our voices are being heard at the national level. As your MP, I will continue to advocate for services and ensure that no one is left behind,” Hon. Orone said.

Residents expressed gratitude for the Speaker’s visit, noting that such high-level engagements bring them closer to the government and encourage active participation in development programs.

The Parish Development Model, a key focus of the gathering, aims to lift 39% of Ugandans still in the subsistence economy into the money economy by supporting income-generating activities at the parish level. Similarly, the Emyooga initiative targets various vocational and enterprise groups—such as boda boda riders, carpenters, and market vendors—with affordable credit and training.

The Speaker’s visit to Pallisa District is part of her broader effort to promote inclusive development and ensure that Ugandans in rural areas understand and access the numerous government programs meant to uplift their livelihoods.