Perceived socio-economic effects of public works programme on the poor households in Abim District-Uganda

Abstract

This study assessed Perceived Socio - Economic Effects of Public Works Programme on the Poor Households in Abim District-Uganda. The study applied cross-sectional qualitative design to collect data from a sample of 16 using in-depth interviews KII and 6 FGDs, The objectives of this study is; to establish the perceived effects of cash for work under the Public Works Programme on poor and vulnerable households in Abim District, to find out how the community have benefited from public assets created under Public Works Programme intervention in Abim District, to identify ways for sustainability of community assets established under Public Works Programme, to identify challenges faced in implementation of Public Works Programme in Abim District Findings indicate that cash for work interventions positively impacted the financial and social well-being of vulnerable households. Regular payments enabled participants to meet essential needs, invest in small-scale businesses, livestock, and gardens, and support education through payment of school fees and purchase of uniforms. The program promoted improved financial decision-making, savings culture, and social capital, while reducing dependence on external aid. Gender-specific patterns in spending and investment highlighted the need for tailored interventions. At the community level, Public Works Programme initiatives enhanced infrastructure and productive assets, including community access roads, water harvesting structures, drainage channels, and institutional woodlots. These assets improved connectivity, climate resilience, food security, and access to health and education services. Capacity-building efforts for local artisans strengthened technical skills, employability, and sustainable asset maintenance, while fostering social cohesion and long-term self-reliance. However, sustainability of public works programme assets remains a challenge due to inadequate maintenance funding, weak institutional integration, limited community training, and environmental threats. Implementation was further constrained by funding gaps, unrealistic timelines, absenteeism, weak social safeguards, and insecurity from cattle raiding. The study concludes that integrated cash-for-work and public works programs can deliver immediate and long-term socio-economic benefits for vulnerable households and communities. The study recommended that strengthening planning, social safeguards, and risk mitigation are essential to maximize effectiveness and resilience of PWP interventions in Abim District.