Uganda will join the rest of the world on December 3, 2023, to commemorate the Day of Persons with Disabilities (PLWDs) and celebrate and acknowledge their capabilities in contributing towards the development of the country.
This day, which is used to create awareness about the importance of promoting equality and full participation of PLWDs in social life as well as development, will be celebrated in Western Uganda (Mbarara District) at Rutooma Senior Secondary School Grounds in Bwizibwera.
Asamo Hellen Grace, Minister of State for Disability Affairs, stated that the government will prioritise innovators who develop inventions that benefit people with disabilities.
“I appeal to you all to always support and promote the need for all upcoming innovations and innovators to prioritise the unique needs of Persons with Disabilities,” she said.
The Minister said that since the inception of the commemoration of the Day of Persons with Disabilities, the disability fraternity has gained a lot through increased awareness and advocacy about disability, appreciation of the capacities and contributions of PLWDs to national development, enhanced government support towards programmes like the national special grant, PDM, Emyooga, and some affirmative action initiatives.
She said that according to the 2014 Uganda Bureau of Statistics (UBOS) census report, disability prevalence was 12.4%, though the number is likely to have increased over time due to accidents and other factors.
“We are waiting for the forthcoming census to get us the latest figures,” she said.
The Minister highlighted the achievements by the Government of Uganda towards PWDs, like the extra 30 minutes for candidate students with disabilities during UNEB exams, university scholarships, vocational skills scholarships, an increase in capitation grants for schools of learners with disabilities, and the approval of a sign language cadre of staff under the Ministry of Education.
The national theme for this year’s celebration is “The Role of Innovations in Disability Inclusion.” This has been derived from the global theme for this year, which is based on innovation, inclusive development, and SDG’s.
On October 14, 1992, the United Nations General Assembly declared December 3 to be the first day to recognize people with disabilities and the first Day of Persons with Disabilities was commemorated of the same year.
