Let's think about PWDs everyday

Every December 3 is the International Day of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs). Today, Uganda joins the World Health Organization (WHO) and other partners worldwide to advocate for innovation and transformative solutions to achieve Health for All.

According to the WHO, the number of people experiencing significant disabilities is growing due to an increase in non-communicable diseases and an aging population. PWDs face health inequities, dying earlier, experiencing poorer health, and facing more limitations in daily functioning.

In Uganda, the Persons with Disabilities Act 2020 defines disability as a permanent substantial functional limitation of daily life activities. Approximately 12.4 percent of Uganda's population lives with a disability, translating to more than five million people facing significant barriers in accessing education, employment, healthcare, and essential services.

Over the years, Uganda has been hailed for having a vibrant and responsive disability policy framework due to her legislative consideration and inclusion of persons with disabilities in the 1995 Constitution and the Persons with Disabilities Act (2020), which provide a solid foundation for promoting the rights of PWDs.

However, despite having a vibrant disability policy framework, PWDs continue to face challenges that hinder their full participation in society. The implementation of these laws remains patchy, and many PWDs continue to face discrimination and exclusion. For instance, many public buildings, schools, and healthcare facilities remain inaccessible to PWDs, while many employers continue to discriminate against PWDs in the workplace.

To address these challenges, Uganda must prioritise supporting PWDs through a multifaceted approach involving government, civil society, the private sector, and PWDs themselves. This includes implementing the Persons with Disabilities Act, incentivising employers to hire and retain PWDs, and providing essential services and support.

Empowering PWDs is a moral imperative and vital step towards building an inclusive and equitable society. By working together, we can create a Uganda where PWDs are valued, respected, and empowered to reach their full potential.

To achieve this, we must: implement policies and laws that promote inclusivity and accessibility; provide education, training, and economic empowerment opportunities for PWDs; promote a culture of togetherness and respect for PWDs; and encourage employers to hire and retain PWDs.

It is important, therefore, to note today as we mark the day that by taking these steps, we can unlock the potential of PWDs, promote diversity, and foster a culture of one people. Let us work together to create a Uganda where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.