Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Uganda Monitor
Published on 2024-03-20 18:44:10
Persons with Disabilities (PWDs), represented by the We Too Can (Naffe Tusobola) organization, are advocating for the government to prioritize inclusive employment opportunities across all sectors. The Executive Director of We Too Can, Ms Aisha Matovu, emphasized the need for PWDs to have equal access to employment opportunities, asserting that they are capable of competing on an equal footing with other Ugandans.
Ms Matovu highlighted the misconception that being disabled equates to being intellectually disabled, stressing the importance of PWDs having access to basic needs and employment opportunities. She pointed out that there are professionals among PWDs who are often overlooked in the job market, limiting their potential contribution to society.
In addition to employment, Ms Matovu also addressed the issue of development and government services accessibility for PWDs. She emphasized the need for government and religious leaders to prioritize the inclusion of PWDs in development agendas and ensure that they are informed about available government programs to prevent them from being left out.
Dr Ibrahim Ssali, the Moroccan Consulate in Uganda and President of the Mohammed VI Foundation in Uganda, expressed readiness to support different categories of individuals in need, including PWDs. Despite the challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic, Dr Ssali affirmed the Foundation’s commitment to supporting marginalized groups through their respective organizations.
Dr Ssali mentioned the Foundation’s collaboration with the We Too Can organization, particularly in providing food assistance to disabled Muslims in Kampala metropolitan during Ramadan. He commended the We Too Can foundation for their efforts in supporting vulnerable groups and acknowledged the challenges they face in navigating the complex landscape of social welfare.
The Mohammed VI Foundation has been actively involved in supporting PWDs since Uganda’s membership in the Foundation in 2019. Dr Ssali emphasized the positive impact of initiatives that assist vulnerable populations during critical periods such as Ramadan, underscoring the importance of collaboration and support for marginalized communities.
In conclusion, the advocacy efforts of We Too Can and the support from organizations like the Mohammed VI Foundation highlight the importance of inclusive policies and programs for PWDs. By prioritizing inclusive employment opportunities and addressing the unique needs of PWDs, Uganda can create a more equitable society where every individual, regardless of their abilities, has the opportunity to contribute and thrive.
Read the original article on Uganda Monitor
