The Role of the Parish Development Model in Promoting Rural Transformation and Women's Financial Empowerment in Uganda: A Systematic Review

Résumé

Background The Parish Development Model (PDM) was introduced in Uganda in 2022 as a flagship strategy for promoting rural transformation and transitioning households from subsistence to the money economy. Despite its policy significance, evidence on its effectiveness in enhancing rural livelihoods and women’s financial empowerment remains fragmented and un-synthesized. This systematic review aimed to synthesize empirical evidence on the role of the PDM in promoting rural transformation and women’s financial empowerment in Uganda. Methods A systematic review was conducted following the PRISMA 2020 guidelines. Electronic databases including Scopus, Web of Science, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar were searched for studies published between 2022 and 2026. Eligible studies focused on the implementation and outcomes of the PDM in Uganda. Data were extracted using a standardized tool and analyzed using thematic synthesis. Study quality was assessed using CASP, JBI, and MMAT appraisal tools. Results A total of 25 studies met the inclusion criteria. The findings indicate that the PDM has contributed to improved financial inclusion through Parish SACCOs and revolving funds, increased access to credit, enhanced agricultural commercialization, and strengthened rural livelihoods. Women were identified as key beneficiaries, with increased participation in savings groups, entrepreneurship, and household financial decision-making. However, implementation challenges including weak institutional capacity, delayed fund disbursement, limited financial literacy, inadequate monitoring systems, and socio-cultural barriers constrained the full realization of its objectives. Conclusion The PDM demonstrates strong potential to promote rural transformation and women’s financial empowerment in Uganda. However, its effectiveness depends on improved governance, strengthened financial literacy, enhanced accountability mechanisms, and gender-responsive implementation strategies.

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