COMMUNITY MOBILISATION AND DEVELOPMENT OUTCOMES UNDER UGANDA’S PARISH DEVELOPMENT MODEL: EVIDENCE FROM EMPOWERMENT, PRODUCTIVITY, AND SUSTAINABILITY INDICATORS

Dr. Patrick Mafumbo Wabwire, Dr. Margaret Nakiwala*

ABSTRACT

The aim of this research paper was to assess the extent to which communitymobilisation supports the implementation of the Parish Development Model (PDM)Fund in Uganda. In doing so, the paper was conceptualised using relatively newtheoretical perspectives, namely participatory development and Asset-BasedCommunity Development. A mixed-methods design was chosen for the study tounderstand how awareness, engagement, and participation collectively influencecommunity mobilisation at the parish level. The study is based on findings from theexisting empirical literature, which suggests mixed practices in communitymobilisation, despite a strong emphasis on inclusive participation in the policyframework. The inconsistencies appear to stem from challenges faced by variousactors, including institutional deficiencies, communication failures, and socioculturalfactors. The research finds that effective community mobilisation under the PDMrequires context-sensitive strategies, strengthened local governance structures, andintegrated communication systems. The study highlights the importance of effectiveand sustained community mobilisation to achieve meaningful transformation at thegrassroots level, thereby contributing to the ongoing dialogue on decentralisation.

Keywords:

1. Community Mobilisation,
2. Parish Development Model (PDM)
3. Decentralised Development
4. Participatory Governance
5. Local Development Outcomes

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