UK Support for Disability Inclusion in Uganda
The UK has been at the forefront of global efforts to promote disability inclusion, and its latest initiatives in Uganda are a testament to this commitment.
Following the successful co-hosting of the 2018 Global Disability Summit, the UK continues to support programs that enhance the lives of people with disabilities.
Disability-Inclusive Graduation Program
One of the key programs supported by the UK is the Disability-Inclusive Graduation (DIG) program, implemented by BRAC Uganda, Humanity & Inclusion, and the National Union of Women with Disabilities of Uganda.
This program, which ran from 2019 to 2022, aimed to empower 2,700 people aged 15-64 living in extreme poverty, with 17% of the participants being people with disabilities and 87% being women.
The program provided comprehensive interventions including inclusive livelihood support, social protection, financial inclusion, and social empowerment.
Economic and Social Impact
The UK’s support for disability inclusion in Uganda has significant economic and social implications. By empowering people with disabilities, these programs contribute to more inclusive and prosperous societies.
According to the FCDO’s Disability Inclusion and Rights Strategy, people with disabilities represent a substantial economic potential, with equal opportunities enabling them to contribute between 3-7% of GDP.
Some Statistics
- A 20% increase in primary school enrolment of children with disabilities in Uganda.
- The DIG program supported 2,700 individuals, with 454 being people with disabilities.
- The program covered four districts in Uganda: Kiryandongo, Gulu, Nwoya, and Oyam.
Leadership Response
Lisa Chesney MBE, British High Commissioner to Uganda, said:
“The International Day of Persons with Disabilities, observed globally on December 3, reminds us of the critical importance of disability inclusion. Last week, I attended a celebration in Uganda for the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, organized by the Ministry of Gender, Labour, and Social Development. I was deeply moved by the stories of resilience and achievement shared by the disabled people I met.
Disability inclusion strengthens businesses and uplifts nations. Research shows that investing in disabled people’s health, education, and employment could boost Uganda’s GDP by 3%. When society includes everyone, we all benefit, creating a stronger, fairer, and more productive nation.”
Sanjay Rughani, CEO of Standard Charter Bank Uganda, said:
“At Standard Chartered Uganda, we believe in opportunities for all. It’s not just a moral stance—it’s a business imperative. Disability inclusion enhances innovation, expands market potential, and increases productivity. Yet, too often, the talents of millions of people with disabilities in Uganda remain untapped.
With over 4.5 million Ugandans living with disabilities, representing just over 12% of the population, the unrealized economic and social potential is staggering. Stigma and lack of access to education and employment are persistent barriers. Only about 9% of children with disabilities attend school, and unemployment among people with disabilities is disproportionately high.
At Standard Chartered, we’ve embraced disability inclusion as a cornerstone of our operations. Through programs like EmployABLE, we equip people with disabilities with job-ready skills, mentorship, and employment opportunities. This isn’t charity; it’s strategy. Employees with disabilities bring resilience, problem-solving skills, and a unique ability to innovate.
For instance, our Sustainability Manager, Deus is visually impaired. This has not deterred him from leading all our community impact initiatives under Futuremakers, initiatives that have impacted over 100k beneficiaries through various local partners and earned the Bank the social license to operate but also manifests our Brand Promise, Here for good for our communities.”
Progress and Targets
- The current Disability Inclusion Programme in Uganda aims to complete its three-year cycle by February 2025.
- The program has seen a rise in the number of children with disabilities attending primary schools from 1,966 to 2,378 between 2022 and 2023.
- The UK targets to maintain and build on the significant progress made since the Global Disability Summit in 2018.
Local Impact
The programs supported by the UK have a profound impact on local communities in Uganda. For instance, the Disability Inclusion Project by International Needs UK has led to the construction of ramps and adapted toilets, provision of sports and mobility equipment, and training for teachers to support children with disabilities.
These initiatives help in reducing stigma and improving the quality of life for individuals with disabilities.
Immediate Implications
The UK’s support for disability inclusion in Uganda is set to have immediate and positive implications for the lives of thousands of individuals. By addressing the systemic barriers faced by people with disabilities, these programs pave the way for a more inclusive and equitable society.
Broader Significance
The UK’s commitment to disability inclusion in Uganda reflects a broader global strategy to promote the rights and empowerment of people with disabilities.
This approach aligns with the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and the UK’s own National Disability Strategy, emphasizing the importance of inclusive development and social justice.
