Uganda to mark the international day for persons with disabilities

25 November 2024, 8:01 pm

By Edwin Okurmu Kisa

On December 3, Uganda will join the rest of the world to commemorate the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, acknowledging their capabilities in contributing to the country’s development.

The Minister of State for Disability Affairs, Hon. Asamo Hellen Grace, during a press meeting today at the Uganda Media Centre in Kampala, stated that this day also serves to raise awareness about the importance of promoting equality and the full participation of persons with disabilities in social life. This year’s national celebrations will take place in Eastern Uganda, specifically at the Boma Playground in Kumi district. The theme for the day is “Improved Household Income for the Well-being of Persons with Disabilities.”

Since 2019, the Government of Uganda has disbursed over UGX 36 billion to support persons with disabilities, aiming to elevate household incomes across the country. Under the Parish Development Model (PDM), 10% of parish-level funds are allocated to persons with disabilities, with each constituency receiving over UGX 30 million to improve their household incomes.

However, the minister noted that poverty and inequality remain high among persons with disabilities. She added that disability continues to pose significant challenges to socioeconomic development due to its associated functional limitations.

The day will feature various activities to increase the visibility of persons with disabilities. These include a national disability symposium with panel discussions on improving household incomes and well-being, health camps, disability assessments, medical camps, and the distribution of assistive devices. Additionally, the government has implemented several legal and policy frameworks to protect and promote the rights of persons with disabilities.