By Kabuye Ronald
Florence Namaganda, the founder of Mukisa Foundation Uganda and Special Children’s Trust, has underscored the need for equitable treatment and enhanced access to excellent services and job opportunities for persons with disabilities.
Speaking at the 9th Annual Awareness Day for children with disabilities held at Kosovo Playground in Luweero, Namaganda emphasized that as the world progresses, the number of people with disabilities continues to rise, necessitating proactive measures for their inclusion.
Citing statistics from the World Health Organization, which indicate that at least one in six individuals worldwide lives with a disability, while in Africa alone, approximately 15% of the population faces severe or moderate disabilities, encompassing nearly 215 million people.
Namaganda urges that this demographic reality, demands not just token gestures of inclusion but substantive efforts to ensure equal access to quality services and meaningful employment opportunities.
“The progress of our societies should be measured by how well we include and support every member, especially those with disabilities,” Namaganda stated passionately during the event. She called for policies and practices that go beyond mere access to services, advocating for systemic changes that promote dignity, independence, and active participation of persons with disabilities in all facets of community life.
Representing the Gender Minister of Buganda Kingdom, Galiwango Teddy Nabakooza echoed Namaganda’s sentiments, pledging the kingdom’s commitment to empowering all its people, regardless of disability status. “Buganda can only thrive when all its citizens have equal access to excellent services and opportunities,” Nabakooza affirmed, emphasizing that gender issues and disability inclusion are central to Buganda’s developmental agenda.
Dr. Vincent Lubowa Ssinabulya, Chairperson of Buganda Disability Council, outlined strategic plans to strengthen leadership structures within the kingdom, from village-level initiatives to top management positions, aimed at reducing new cases of disability and ensuring comprehensive support systems for those affected. “Our goal is to minimize the occurrence of disabilities and enhance the quality of services available to persons with disabilities,” Dr. Ssinabulya explained.
The commemoration at Kosovo Playground not only highlighted the challenges faced by persons with disabilities but also served as a platform to advocate for inclusive policies and community-driven initiatives that foster equality and opportunity for all. As stakeholders continue to collaborate towards these goals, Florence Namaganda’s call for transformative change resonates as a beacon of hope for a more inclusive and compassionate society.
