NRM’s Todwong Urges Cultural Institutions to work with Government for Communal Development

The Secretary General of the NRM, Rt. Hon. Richard Todwong, made an earnest appeal to cultural institutions to partner with the government in fostering unity among the people under their leadership, with the aim of ensuring community development.

This call was made during his attendance at the 13th coronation anniversary of Ubimu Ker Alur, Phillip Olarker Rauni III, in Nebbi district on a Saturday. The celebration took place at Parombo Town Council grounds in Padyere County.

Addressing a multitude of residents and guests at the event, Todwong stressed the significance of collaboration between cultural institutions and the government, saying, “Society is in a constant state of improvement and change, and people’s interests evolve. By working together, these two institutions can effectively guide our people.”

He emphasized that the harmonious relationship between these entities, if properly harnessed, could pave the way for peace, unity, and prosperity in society. Todwong also underlined the importance of cultural diversity, noting that it should never be a source of confusion for the people.

Todwong encouraged the people of Alur kingdom to embrace the Parish Development Model as a means to combat poverty in the region. This program, initiated by the government, seeks to uplift households involved in agriculture out of poverty.

“We, as the NRM, have submitted our manifesto to the government, which includes the PDM as a tool to combat household poverty under the pillar of NPD III,” he remarked.

Acknowledging delays in disbursing funds to the intended beneficiaries, Todwong attributed the setbacks to bureaucratic procedures in opening bank accounts, a requirement for both beneficiaries and those responsible for sensitization and training. He expressed hope that the Ministry of Local Government, the PDM Secretariat, and the banks were working on streamlining the process, noting that the funds were already in SACCO accounts.

Todwong urged residents to be patient with the government, pointing out that road construction projects were already underway. He clarified that the government proceeds through three stages in infrastructure development: recognition of the need for road improvements, design and budgeting, and resource mobilization. He assured that some progress had been made, and the government was committed to addressing the challenges in the West Nile region based on priorities.

Hon. Grace Freedom Kwiyucwiny, Minister of State for northern Uganda, who represented the President at the event, encouraged the people of Alur to devote themselves to enhancing their household well-being. She emphasized that the NRM government had restored peace and order in the area and urged the community to leverage this stability to improve their lives and uplift their communities.