Museveni hails visually impaired farmer for thriving through PDM

KASESE - President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has hailed Biira Pelucy, a visually impaired poultry farmer in Kasese Municipality, for transforming her life through the Parish Development Model (PDM).

Biira, who once survived by begging, now manages a successful poultry business of 750 chickens from her home in Kasese, earning millions of shillings from the venture. She also serves as chairperson of persons with disabilities in Kasese Municipality.

Speaking during his PDM tour of the Rwenzori sub-region, which kicked off on Monday, May 12, President Museveni expressed delight at Biira’s progress, describing her journey as a powerful example of what government programmes can achieve in the fight against poverty.

Museveni also criticised the police and judiciary for releasing suspects on bond and warned of action against any officer who fails to safeguard communities. (Credit: PPU)

“This has been my message since the 1960s in Nyabushozi. I advised people in Ankole to settle down and rear dairy cows. Later, we included this in the 1996 NRM Manifesto through the Four-Acre Model: one acre for coffee, another for fruits, the third for pasture, the fourth for food, and backyard poultry. Those near swamps should also do fish farming,” he said.

The President added that initiatives such as PDM and Emyooga are designed to empower ordinary Ugandans and promote self-sufficiency, noting that the money involved belongs to the people themselves.

“If you don’t follow up on this money and use it, you’re not only failing yourselves, but also the government that wants to get you out of poverty,” he said.

To support Biira further, President Museveni donated shs20 million to help her fence her farm and acquire transport for her poultry business.

He also criticised the police and judiciary for releasing suspects on bond and warned of action against any officer who fails to safeguard communities.

“Any policeman giving bond to thieves will be arrested,” he warned, calling on local leaders at LC5 and LC3 level to address community challenges.

Biira raised concerns about water access, saying her water meter was removed due to non-payment, forcing her to buy water from neighbours or National Water standpoints.

To support Biira further, President Museveni donated shs20 million to help her fence her farm and acquire transport for her poultry business. (Credit: PPU)

The President said the Ministry of Agriculture had been directed to formulate a plan to resolve water shortages in rural areas.

“I used to be a beggar. Now, I can manage my needs, take care of my treatment, and run a business that gives me dignity,” Biira said.

Also present was the Minister of State for ICT and National Guidance, Godfrey Kabyanga, who praised Biira’s courage and thanked the President for introducing the PDM programme.