By Musisi Lwanga
Road accidents in Uganda are on the rise, leading to a growing number of people living with disabilities across the country.
According to the 2024 report by the Uganda Bureau of Statistics (UBOS), both road accidents and related injuries—particularly leg fractures—have significantly increased. The Director General at the Ministry of Health, Dr. Charles Olaro, noted that the number of people living with disabilities has now risen to approximately 5.5 million in Uganda.
Dr. Olaro made these remarks during a ceremony organized by the Ruparelia Foundation. The event, led by Dr. Sudhir Ruparelia and his family—including Jyotsna, Sheena, and Meera Ruparelia—saw the donation of artificial limbs to road accident victims from Busoga, Greater Masaka, Lira, and other districts.
The donation was made in memory of the late Rajiv Ruparelia, who died in a car accident along the Entebbe Expressway a year ago. Marking the anniversary of his passing, the family honored his legacy through acts of charity.
Speaking on behalf of the family, Rajiv’s mother, Jyotsna Ruparelia, shared in a message that Rajiv was deeply compassionate and believed in helping others. She emphasized that the family is committed to continuing his vision of supporting those in need.
Beneficiaries of the initiative—many of whom had lost limbs in road accidents—expressed gratitude, saying they had not expected such life-changing support.
The Suman Foundation, one of the partners in the initiative, explained their motivation for joining the effort, highlighting the importance of collective responsibility in addressing the growing crisis.
Meanwhile, Dr. Rosemary Byanyima, Executive Director of Mulago National Referral Hospital, praised the strong partnership between the hospital and the Ruparelia Foundation. She noted that such donations are a vital part of community service and encouraged others to contribute toward helping vulnerable populations.
Beyond providing artificial limbs, the Ruparelia Foundation also equips beneficiaries with essential items to support their daily lives, helping them regain independence and dignity.
