By Our Writer
An innovative cashless fintech Project Management Model (PMM) is being deployed to transform hygiene interventions in Uganda’s refugee settlements, marking a significant shift in how humanitarian programmes are implemented and monitored.
The rollout, under the Dettol Hygiene Quest Uganda initiative, was officially unveiled at Four Points by Sheraton Kampala on Sunday, signaling the programme’s transition into its second phase. The expansion will see activities extended to the refugee settlements of Rwamwanja Refugee Settlement, Nakivale Refugee Settlement, and Kyaka II Refugee Settlement, alongside surrounding host communities. Implementation is set to begin on May 20, 2026.
The initiative is a partnership between Reckitt and Chil AI Lab, building on the success of Phase One launched in November 2024, which primarily focused on improving hygiene practices in schools.
At the centre of the expansion is a proprietary fintech-driven PMM designed to digitise both financial management and operational workflows. The model eliminates physical cash transactions in the field, replacing them with secure digital payments made directly to vendors, contractors, and field teams through encrypted digital wallets.
Speaking at the launch, Dr. Shamim Nabuuma said the introduction of a cashless system represents a breakthrough in aligning financial accountability with measurable public health outcomes. She noted that the model ensures every transaction and activity is tracked in real time, enhancing transparency and efficiency in programme delivery.
The system is also equipped with real-time monitoring capabilities, enabling project managers to track implementation progress across multiple sites—from the construction of hygiene infrastructure to the delivery of education campaigns. This live tracking mechanism allows for instant reporting and verification, ensuring that resources are used effectively and impact is continuously assessed.
A standout feature of the model is its integration of artificial intelligence. An AI-powered attendance chatbot is used to capture participation data among beneficiaries, particularly students. This data feeds directly into the system and is tied to milestone-based disbursements, reinforcing a results-based financing approach that links funding to verified outcomes.
According to programme implementers, this approach not only reduces risks associated with cash handling but also establishes a clear and auditable financial trail. The transparency embedded in the system is expected to build greater trust among development partners and stakeholders involved in the initiative.
The expansion into refugee settlements has been supported by an additional development partner, which committed funding after evaluating the impact of the programme’s initial phase. This backing is expected to accelerate the delivery of critical hygiene infrastructure and services in some of Uganda’s most vulnerable communities.
Beyond immediate interventions, the initiative is positioning itself as a model for the future of humanitarian programming. By combining fintech solutions with public health initiatives, the project demonstrates how digital innovation can address long-standing challenges in accountability, efficiency, and impact measurement.
As implementation begins, the Dettol Hygiene Quest’s cashless PMM is expected to set a new benchmark for technology-driven development programmes in Uganda, particularly in complex environments such as refugee settlements where transparency and effective resource management are critical