Vice President Jessica Alupo presided over the national commemoration of the International Day for Persons with Disabilities in Kumi District today.
This year's event, themed "Improved Household Income for the Well-being of Persons with Disabilities," brought together stakeholders from government, civil society, and local communities across the country to assess progress and chart a way forward for empowering persons with disabilities (PWDs).
Betty Amongi, the minister of Gender, Labour, and Social Development, gave an overview of the government's initiatives aimed at improving the lives of PWDs.
Among these are the inclusion of disability-focused programs under the Parish Development Model (PDM) and enhanced access to education through special-needs schools.
Minister Amongi emphasized the significance of this year's theme, noting that more than two million Ugandans live with disabilities.
"Today's celebration allows us to take stock of what has been achieved and identify gaps in ensuring economic and social inclusion for persons with disabilities," she stated.
She also stressed the need to address the root causes of disability in Uganda, including preventable illnesses, inadequate maternal healthcare, and accidents.
"As we celebrate progress, we must also tackle the factors that are causing disability in our communities," she added.
During the symposium, PWDs shared personal testimonies about their struggles and successes, with many calling for increased access to affordable credit, skills training, and employment opportunities to help them achieve financial independence.
"Our greatest need is empowerment through income-generating projects. With sustainable livelihoods, we can live with dignity," one participant shared.
The event featured exhibitions of products made by PWDs, cultural performances, and discussions on disability inclusion policies.
Civil society representatives urged the government to strengthen the implementation of disability-friendly laws and programs.
The celebration in Kumi marks a significant step in raising awareness and promoting the well-being of PWDs, setting a hopeful tone for more inclusive development in Uganda.
