Mugwanya empowering lives through compassion
The director of Father’s Heart Mobility Ministry in Ggaba, Mr Francis Mugwanya, leaves a building in his wheelchair last week. PHOTO/RACHEAL NABISUBI
What you need to know:
- The challenges he faced during childhood have compelled him to reach out to people living with physical disabilities.
The director of Father’s Heart Mobility Ministry in Ggaba, Mr Francis Mugwanya, has dedicated his life to improving the lives of people with disabilities (PWDs), drawing inspiration from his challenging childhood.
Driven by compassion, Mr Mugwanya travels across districts, delivering wheelchairs to PWDs who cannot afford them.
“My commitment to giving out wheelchairs stems from my childhood experiences of vulnerability,” he says.
Mr Mugwanya adds: “Growing up in Nakaseke without a wheelchair for nearly nine-and-a-half years because my parents could not afford one, I had to crawl to school and navigate life's challenges on my hands and knees.”
Despite their best efforts, his parents could not initially secure a wheelchair for him. When they finally managed to pay for one, it was never delivered. Instead, they bought a large bicycle, and Mr Mugwanya’s brother, who was too short to sit on the seat, would carry him on the back. “However, when we arrived at school, the bicycle had to be taken back home, meaning I had to crawl around the school premises, including the toilet and kitchen,” he recounts.
Four-and-a-half years into his primary education, Mr Mugwanya finally received a wheelchair. This marked a turning point in his life, granting him the independence he had longed for. With gratitude in his heart, he made a vow. “I promised God when I got my first wheelchair that I would give one to someone else when I grew up,” he says.
Mr Mugwanya highlights the emotional and psychological challenges faced by individuals with disabilities, including low self-esteem and negative societal perceptions.
He believes these barriers often push many PWDs into a life of dependency or begging. However, he encourages them to defy societal stereotypes, discover their abilities, and focus on their potential.
“My mission is rooted in compassion, driven by my past and a commitment to ensure that no child, disabled or not, should have to endure life on the streets,” he explains.
Mr Mugwanya adds: “Through my work, I seek to empower PWDs to recognise their worth and capabilities, encouraging them to always strive for independence and fulfilment. I want people to be as independent as possible and to enjoy life. Receiving a wheelchair makes that possible, removing some hindrances.”
Reflecting on his childhood, he recalls the immense struggles he faced. Beyond the physical challenges, he was subjected to ridicule by peers and hurtful comments from adults in his community.
“People told me I would never grow up because individuals with disabilities die young. They said I would never go to school, get married, or get a job. These negative messages filled my mind as I grew up,” Mr Mugwanya shares.
His perspective changed when he embraced salvation, finding solace and strength in his faith.
“When I got saved, the Bible became a significant influence in my turning point and in changing how I viewed my life,” he recounts.
Today, Mr Mugwanya’s life is a testament to resilience and the power of compassion. By providing mobility solutions to others, he is breaking down barriers and inspiring hope among PWDs, ensuring they can lead dignified and fulfilling lives.
MOTIVATION
Mr Francis Mugwanya (pictured) said:“My commitment to giving out wheelchairs stems from my childhood experiences of vulnerability... Growing up in Nakaseke without a wheelchair for nearly nine and a half years because my parents could not afford one, I had to crawl to school and navigate life’s challenges on my hands and knees.’’
