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

Abstract

The aim of this research paper was to assess the extent to which community mobilisation supports the implementation of the Parish Development Model (PDM) Fund in Uganda. In doing so, the paper was conceptualised using relatively new theoretical perspectives, namely participatory development and Asset-Based Community Development. A mixed-methods design was chosen for the study to understand how awareness, engagement, and participation collectively influence community mobilisation at the parish level. The study is based on findings from the existing empirical literature, which suggests mixed practices in community mobilisation, despite a strong emphasis on inclusive participation in the policy framework. The inconsistencies appear to stem from challenges faced by various actors, including institutional deficiencies, communication failures, and sociocultural factors. The research finds that effective community mobilisation under the PDM requires context-sensitive strategies, strengthened local governance structures, and integrated communication systems. The study highlights the importance of effective and sustained community mobilisation to achieve meaningful transformation at the grassroots level, thereby contributing to the ongoing dialogue on decentralisation.