By Charles Katabalwa/ Umoja Standard.
Kampala, Uganda: Today the opposition Party National Unity platform (NUP) has organized a parallel cerebration at Kamwokya party headquarters to that of government held in Kole districts.
This year’s Theme is “Transformative solutions for inclusive development: the role of innovation in fuelling an accessible and equitable world.”
The day is about promoting the rights and well-being of persons with disabilities at every level of society and development, and to raise awareness of the situation of persons with disabilities in all aspects of political, social, economic, and cultural life. WHO joins this endeavour to reinforce the importance of securing the rights of people with disabilities, so they can participate fully, equally and effectively in society with others, and face no barriers in all aspects of their lives.
Kyagulanyi with some of PWDs NUP members/Courtesy Photo.
According to the Global Report on Assistive Technology, 2.5 billion people need at least one assistive product. The demand is expected to be go up to 3.5 billion by 2050. The requirement may range from a spectacle to highly advanced myoelectric hand or robotic exoskeletons. However, nearly nine out of 10 people who need assistive technology do not have access to it – this has an adverse impact on the education, livelihood, health and well-being of individuals, families, communities and societies.
Robert kyagulanyi Ssentamu who has been the Chief Guest at Kamwokya celebrations said that PWDs 100% can contribute to the social economic development of this country when are given equal grounds like the rest of the people
Ssentamu adds that it’s upon PWDs to stand strong and act positively such that can be recognized by public, among which include participating in political leadership positions to have a voice in any decision they want to make concerning thier issues.
“Parents and guardians don’t deny children with Disabilities opportunity to have bright future , don’t hide them behind houses because they have value as other children” kyagulanyi said
He has condermed current government over failing to give enabling environment to PWDs to contribute to social and economic development of society and eradication of poverty
“Shimoni Demonstration School Was here to help children with Disabilities but was demolished to construct hotels which has affected alot the future of PWDs adding PWDs are being used by opportunitis to get money” says kyagulanyi
The party has today given office space to PWDs for better and smooth running of thier activities as well as monitoring issues affecting them.