KAMPALA- President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has pledged an allocation of Ugx 300 million every year to Persons With Disabilities (PWDs) in the five divisions of Kampala City.
The funds which will be allocated through their Savings and Credit Cooperative Organizations (SACCOs), are aimed at boosting their economic empowerment under the Parish Development Model (PDM).
The President made the commitment on February 4th 2024 while meeting a group of People With Disability led by the Minister of State for Disability Affairs Hon Hellen Grace Asamo at State House, Entebbe who requested an increase in PDM funding, arguing that the current allocation of Ugx 1 million was inadequate to meet their needs.
“I think we had not really given it a lot of thought on how that money is not sufficient for you, now that I am aware , we are going to step in ,you are right, you have special needs and requirements,” He said.
The President announced that the government would allocate the money annually to PWD SACCOs in each of Kampala’s divisions to enhance their socio-economic transformation.
“We shall therefore allocate Ugx 300 million each year to PWD SACCOs in each division of Kampala so that it can boost your socio-economic growth since Ugx 1 million is not enough,” President Museveni stated.
Kampala 5 Divisions include Central, Kawempe, Makindye, Nakawa and Rubaga and urged the beneficiaries to take charge of distributing the funds among their members, emphasizing the government’s commitment to inclusive development.
“The government is determined to enhance socio-economic transformation and improve household incomes, so you must be included in all ways possible. 100 individuals will benefit each year and you will decide on how much you get accordingly,” He said.
A representative to the group Majid Kawooya expressed gratitude to President Museveni for responding to their concerns and his continued efforts to improve their livelihoods.
Kawooya explained that while each individual receives Ugx 1 million under the Parish Development Model to support income-generating projects, PWDs face unique challenges that make it difficult to utilize the funds effectively.
“However, because we are disabled, we have special needs. Many of us require helpers to assist with mobility, pushing wheelchairs, and providing other essential services,” He added.
Kawooya further explained that by the time PWDs receive the funds, a significant portion has already been spent on necessary support services, leaving little for actual business investment.
