Individuals with disabilities have urged the Ministry of Finance, Planning, and Economic Development to set aside a dedicated budget for Rehabilitation and Assistive Technology in the upcoming 2024/2025 financial year.

Ester Kyozira, the Chief Executive Officer of the National Union of Disabled Persons of Uganda (NUDIPU), emphasized the importance of this initiative in closing the service delivery gap and enhancing access to orthopedic care for the wider community.

Assistive technologies (ATs) encompass a broad spectrum of tools, ranging from familiar low-tech items like reading glasses, crutches, and hearing aids to more advanced solutions.

Others include physical aids such as wheelchairs, prosthetic limbs, and white canes, as well as digital innovations like speech recognition software and captioning tools, all designed to improve the quality of life for individuals with disabilities.

Kyozira emphasized the need for the Ministry of Finance to set aside a dedicated budget for the rehabilitation and procurement of Assistive Technology (AT) for persons with disabilities (PWDs) in all government orthopedic hospitals and workshops.

She pointed out that there are significant gaps in the government’s provision of ATs, which are frequently addressed by non-governmental organizations and development partners.

Why they are crucial

She highlighted that the absence of a budget undermines the ability of these facilities to improve service delivery and promote the meaningful inclusion of persons with disabilities (PWDs).

She stressed the significance of assistive devices and assistive technology (AT) for PWDs in Uganda, as they enable individuals to engage more fully in society.

However, there are numerous obstacles to accessing ATs across the country, particularly in government-run orthopedic workshops within hospitals, which struggle to repair or acquire new assistive devices or ATs due to budget constraints.

Kyozira made this observation during the launch of a comprehensive assessment of Uganda’s orthopedic workshops.

The event evaluated the repair services for assistive devices and ATs in both government-operated and private facilities.

A comprehensive evaluation of individuals with disabilities is essential to identify their unique requirements for assistive devices.

These tools, she says, play a vital role in improving mobility, fostering independence, and enhancing overall quality of life, which in turn facilitates greater engagement in society.

The NUDIPU report was delivered by Carolyne Maholo Sserunkuma, a lecturer from Kyambogo University’s Department of Disability Studies, who oversaw the assessment in various hospitals, including those in Jinja, Kumi, Mbale, Soroti, Lira, Gulu, Arua, Fort Portal, Masaka, Mbarara, Wakiso, and Mulago national referral hospitals.

This research aimed to evaluate orthopedic services in Uganda by comparing government-run facilities with private orthopedic centers in different regions.

The researcher also visited CURE Children’s Hospital of Uganda, Comprehensive Rehabilitation Services for People with Disabilities in Uganda (CORSU), and Katalemwa Cheshire Home, a non-governmental organization dedicated to providing comprehensive rehabilitation services for children with disabilities.

Key focus areas of the assessment included resource distribution, availability of equipment, supply chain management, funding, and staffing levels.

The findings of this assessment are intended to support NUDIPU’s advocacy initiatives, ensuring that individuals with disabilities in Uganda can access quality healthcare and fully participate in society.

The study’s objective was to evaluate government-operated orthopedic workshops in Uganda, identify challenges, explore potential improvements, and offer recommendations to guide advocacy efforts.

The ultimate aim was to enhance the capabilities of these facilities to improve service delivery and promote the meaningful inclusion of persons with disabilities.

State of rehabilitation workshops

In an interview, Alex Ndeezi, a Member of Parliament representing the Central region for Disabilities, expressed concerns about the current state of government-operated rehabilitation workshops, stating that it is not satisfactory.

He emphasized that government-run rehabilitation workshops play a crucial role in Uganda’s services for individuals with disabilities.

However, he said an examination of these facilities uncovers both operational strengths and notable accessibility issues, stressing that the provisions for physical accessibility are often inconsistent, with many essential structural adjustments to aid mobility missing, even within the rehabilitation centers.

Ndeezi cautioned that while most facilities feature ramps, appropriately sized doorways, and adequate lighting, they frequently fall short in providing accessible toilets, bathrooms, and modified taps, switches, or beds designed for the needs of persons with disabilities.

He noted that additionally, accessible communication tools such as sign language interpreters, braille materials, and ICT resources are largely lacking in both government and private health facilities, despite their critical role in fostering inclusive rehabilitation.

He further highlighted that healthcare providers frequently have a narrow understanding of the varied needs of individuals with disabilities, which results in insufficient accommodations and ultimately restricts their ability to access services effectively.

He explained that while some staff show a commendable and supportive demeanor towards individuals with disabilities, others display negative attitudes.

He said this could be attributed to low motivation and challenging working conditions within the various facilities, emphasizing the urgent need for enhanced support and training to create a more inclusive and responsive healthcare setting.

John Chriss Ninsiima, the Director Programs at NUDIPU, stated that people with disabilities require orthopedic services to ensure they can live on an equal footing with others.

He said although there are numerous government orthopedic services across the country, many are non-operational, and some have even shut down.

Ninsiima further explained that the government is aware of the demand for such services, but the issue lies in the lack of a dedicated budget for PWDs.

Dr. Moses Fisha Muhumuza, from CORSU Rehabilitation Hospital for PwDs, noted that the initiative originally aimed at producing 3D printed transtibial prosthetics has now broadened to include essential Ankle Foot Orthoses (AFOs or braces), which are crucial for treating conditions like clubfoot, post-injection paralysis, and other prevalent disabilities among children in Uganda.

He urged the government to consistently apply tax exemptions on imported medical equipment, saying that despite the significant costs and time involved, the clearance process has consistently faced delays from URA at Nakawa.

Hon. Ibrahim Ssemujju Nganda, a prominent opposition leader and Member of Parliament for Kira Municipality, has once again made waves with his biting critique of the National Resistance Movement (NRM) following their unexpected defeat in the Kisoro Woman MP by-election.

Known for his sharp humor and fearless commentary, Ssemujju used this latest development as an opportunity to deliver a satirical yet pointed analysis of the ruling party’s approach to elections and political power.

Ssemujju, who is no stranger to using satire to challenge the government, remarked on the Kisoro by-election, “The Kisoro Woman MP by-election is one NRM would win, but with NRM, even what they would easily win, they would still rig.” His words reflected both the absurdity and irony of the situation: despite the NRM’s historical stronghold in the region, their reliance on manipulation of the electoral process to secure victory often leads to outcomes that are more damaging than advantageous. Ssemujju’s statement underscored the paradox of the NRM’s strategy—what could have been a straightforward win ended up in an embarrassing loss due to the party’s overzealous attempts to control the election results.

The Kisoro by-election was widely expected to be a walkover for the NRM, given the region’s historical allegiance to the ruling party. The NRM has enjoyed a solid base of support in the area for years, making the contest seem like a foregone conclusion. However, in a surprising turn of events, an independent candidate emerged victorious, a result that has raised questions about the effectiveness of the ruling party’s electioneering tactics. The loss has led to widespread speculation that the NRM’s controversial tactics—ranging from alleged vote-rigging to voter intimidation—may have actually played a role in their defeat, further alienating voters rather than consolidating their support.

Ssemujju’s comments resonated deeply with many Ugandans who are disillusioned by what they perceive as the NRM’s desperate and undemocratic methods to maintain political control. His observation that the NRM’s obsession with rigging elections is not only a sign of insecurity but also a reflection of the party’s declining popularity, struck a nerve with the electorate. For many, the ruling party’s fixation on manipulating the electoral process rather than trusting in its own support base is a sign of political desperation.

The growing sentiment among Ugandans, as echoed by Ssemujju, is that the NRM’s tactics are not only a betrayal of democratic principles but also increasingly ineffective in securing genuine political victories. The electorate’s frustration with the NRM’s interference in what could be simple and transparent elections is palpable. For many, Ssemujju’s remarks offer a mix of humor and truth, providing a much-needed release for the pent-up dissatisfaction felt by citizens who long for a fairer, more transparent electoral system.

The Kisoro by-election result has served as a wake-up call for both the NRM and the opposition. For the NRM, the outcome has raised serious questions about the party’s waning popularity and the effectiveness of their strategy of electoral manipulation. For the opposition, it signals a growing opportunity to challenge the political status quo, as the electorate becomes more attuned to the need for change and reform in the political system.

Ssemujju Nganda’s mocking of the NRM’s handling of the Kisoro by-election reflects a broader discontent with the ruling party’s governance style and its persistent attempts to control every aspect of Uganda’s political landscape. The incident highlights the increasing desire among Ugandans for free and fair elections, where citizens can choose their leaders without fear of manipulation or intimidation. As the opposition continues to advocate for greater transparency and fairness in Uganda’s elections, Ssemujju’s commentary serves as both a criticism of the current political environment and a call for change, one that many Ugandans are now eager to see realized.

The scandal surrounding Agather Atuhaire and the Agora Discourse organization has cast a pall of disrepute over Uganda’s civil society, raising profound concerns about Agora’s veracity and ethical fortitude.

Agora Discourse, which initially styled itself as a paragon of human rights advocacy and civic engagement, now faces grave allegations that imperil its credibility, revealing what critics allege to be a duplicitous venture exploiting international goodwill for personal enrichment.

Founded in 2023 with an ostensible mission to augment digital discourse and foster civic participation, Agora Discourse now stands accused of subverting these ideals in favor of clandestine, self-serving ambitions.

Accusations against Agora include the gross misappropriation of substantial funds, including generous contributions from prominent international benefactors such as USAID. Despite this influx of financial resources, transparency has been conspicuously absent, breeding deep-seated suspicions that Agora’s leadership has obfuscated the disbursement of funds to conceal illicit enrichment.At the epicenter of this scandal is Atuhaire, who, alongside a close cadre of associates, is accused of exploiting youth-led protest movements under the guise of solidarity, while in reality capitalizing on public donations for her private gain.

Numerous complaints from disillusioned protestors allege that the substantial sums they contributed were embezzled, with no discernible record of how these funds were utilized. Yet, rather than addressing these grievances, Atuhaire has reportedly retreated into deflection, casting her critics as “state agents” seeking to destabilize her cause—a response seen by many as evasive and indicative of deeper malfeasance.

The controversy is further compounded by unsavory rumors regarding Atuhaire’s personal modus operandi in securing influence and resources. Insiders allege she has strategically cultivated liaisons with influential donors and high-ranking officials, ostensibly to procure financial patronage and shield her operations from scrutiny.

Notably, it is speculated that she has developed relationships with key foreign dignitaries, including senior figures at USAID and the European Union, raising ethical questions about the authenticity and propriety of Agora’s ascendency in Uganda’s activist sphere.Agora’s reputation is further marred by accusations of intimidatory tactics against other reputable activists and NGOs, reportedly leveraging blackmail and defamation to neutralize dissent.

Respected figures such as Dr. Bireete Sarah and Isaac Semakadde have allegedly been subjected to targeted smear campaigns and online harassment orchestrated by Agora affiliates.

This behavior, if substantiated, would signify an egregious abuse of influence and a betrayal of Uganda’s activist ethos, revealing Agora as an insidious presence within civil society.In sum, these revelations paint a grim portrait of an organization that, beneath a carefully cultivated veneer of advocacy, appears to be a voracious entity preying upon both public and international benefactors.

For those acquainted with Uganda’s activist milieu, Agora’s precipitous rise is increasingly seen as a cautionary exemplar—a chilling reminder of the perils of unregulated NGOs operating with impunity. If Agora Discourse fails to confront these allegations with genuine accountability and transparency, it risks a precipitous collapse of public trust, potentially alienating the very communities it purports to uplift and eroding the international confidence it has thus far manipulated to its advantage.

Further exacerbating this scandal are fresh allegations that Atuhaire has engaged in character assassination against renowned human rights defender Ms. Nana Mwafrika. Ms. Mwafrika recently responded by challenging Atuhaire’s campaign of malicious falsehoods, even taking the matter to law enforcement by filing a police report.

This confrontation erupted after Ms. Mwafrika discovered WhatsApp messages, voice notes, and tweets shared by Atuhaire on her X handle (@AAgather), where Atuhaire purportedly expressed regret for spreading rumors that Ms. Mwafrika had demanded payment to participate in protests.

This incident not only underscores the volatile nature of Agora’s leadership but further sullies the organization’s reputation, revealing a pattern of defamation and manipulation that threatens to isolate Agora from Uganda’s broader activist community.

State Minister for Youth and Children Affairs, Balaam Ateenyi, has taken aim at National Unity Platform (NUP) leader Bobi Wine, accusing him of showing disrespect towards General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, the Chief of Defence Forces. Ateenyi called on Bobi Wine to recognize Muhoozi as a leader of the people, expressing confidence that Uganda’s future is secure under Muhoozi’s leadership, particularly as President Yoweri Museveni’s tenure nears its end.

In his remarks, Ateenyi also boasted about the government’s achievements and the widespread support it has garnered across the country, specifically citing regions such as Soroti, Kumi, Tororo, Masaka, Masindi, Igara West, and Igara East. He suggested these areas reflect strong grassroots backing for Muhoozi.

“I’m disappointed by Bobi Wine’s lack of respect for my leader, despite his efforts to garner support,” Ateenyi said. “It’s time for him to acknowledge General Muhoozi Kainerugaba as the people’s leader. When President Museveni retires, Uganda will enter a new era. We’ve already made significant progress in Soroti, Kumi, Tororo, Masaka, Masindi, Igara West, and Igara East. Our voices are being heard.”

Ateenyi’s comments come as the NUP, led by Bobi Wine, continues its tour of Soroti district.

Attorney General (AG) Kiryowa Kiwanuka has strongly condemned Uganda Law Society (ULS) President Isaac Ssemakadde for issuing a recent “executive order” that sought to expel the AG, Solicitor General, and their representatives from the ULS Council. The AG described the move as both embarrassing and legally flawed.

Ssemakadde’s attempt to revoke the AG’s position on the ULS Council, challenging his role as head of the Ugandan bar, prompted a firm response from the AG. He criticized the action as “unlawful” and “theatrical,” emphasizing that neither Ssemakadde nor the ULS has the legal authority to override statutory roles outlined in the Uganda Law Society Act, which mandates the AG’s involvement in the society.

The AG further argued that Ssemakadde, in his capacity as ULS President, does not possess legislative powers over the society or the country. He dismissed claims of conflicts of interest and undue influence on Uganda’s judiciary, affirming that he adheres strictly to legal procedures.

In response to allegations about restricted access to Ugandan laws, the AG clarified that digital access fees are used to support the Uganda Law Reform Commission’s online resources. He pointed out that legal materials have always carried associated costs, even in print form.

The AG also hinted at the possibility of legal action in response to what he described as “sponsored personal attacks” by Ssemakadde, accusing the ULS President of making baseless claims. He dismissed these remarks as “high-sounding nothings” and warned of an “unhealthy obsession” with his office.

As the legal and political standoff continues, the dispute has sparked widespread public debate, with many awaiting further developments.

MP Francis Zaake has broken his silence after a brutal altercation with Minister Akol in Parliament over the contentious National Coffee Amendment Bill 2024. Two days following the incident, Zaake posted a resilient message on social media, reassuring supporters of his determination to overcome adversity.

“One day everything is gonna be fine… Remember your pain is not in vain. That is how you get the experience, and what doesn’t kill you makes you strong,” he stated, emphasizing perseverance amidst intense scrutiny and challenges.

The altercation stemmed from disagreements on managing and regulating Uganda’s coffee sector, sparking outrage and conversations about parliamentary conduct and tolerance. Speaker Anita Among suspended Zaake, adding to his physical injuries. Despite this, Zaake’s message advocates unity and courage, resonating with supporters seeking justice.

Zaake’s experience isn’t isolated; he previously faced parliamentary controversy, including office relocation and suspension from commissioner position, later overturned by court ruling . His nomination to replace Mpuuga on the Parliamentary Commission signifies resilience . The National Coffee Amendment Bill 2024’s passage amidst chaos underscores Uganda’s complex political landscape.

A recent altercation in Uganda’s Parliament has sparked concerns about the country’s parliamentary culture. Kilak North MP Anthony Akol physically confronted fellow legislator Francis Zaake during a heated session, punching him and suggesting Zaake’s behavior warranted a mental evaluation. Akol justified his actions, comparing himself to an “elephant that is dangerous to provoke,” implying he was provoked and forced to respond.

The incident occurred over a seating dispute, with Zaake allegedly occupying Akol’s seat, triggering an explosive reaction. Speaker Anita Among intervened, suspending 12 MPs, including Zaake and Akol, for three consecutive sittings. Zaake was hospitalized after the altercation, sparking outrage and calls for accountability.

This isn’t Akol’s first physical confrontation in Parliament; in 2020, he assaulted former MP Odonga Otto, who required medical attention. Akol’s repeated behavior raises questions about parliamentary accountability mechanisms and the normalization of violence in resolving disputes .

The incident underscores deeper issues within Uganda’s political sphere, where force is sometimes viewed as a means to assert dominance or command respect. Akol’s reference to himself as an “elephant” reflects resilience but also aggression when provoked .

To restore integrity, Uganda’s Parliament must address conduct and uphold parliamentary sanctity. Reforms are necessary to prevent physical violence and promote civility and debate

Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni has expressed his frustration and disappointment over the opposition to the government’s plan to rationalize state agencies.

He described the resistance as “embarrassing” and “shallow,” emphasizing that the most shameful aspect is the prevalence of tribalism.

Museveni criticized detractors who claim the rationalization is a tactic for personal gain, particularly regarding Uganda’s coffee sector. He deemed these accusations baseless, highlighting that allegations of theft, especially of Uganda’s coffee resources, are unfounded.

Museveni voiced his disappointment in the opposition’s stance, particularly those raising concerns along tribal lines. He described this approach as a harmful distraction from Uganda’s economic goals. Instead, he defended the rationalization initiative as necessary for Uganda’s socioeconomic transformation. The plan aims to streamline government functions, reduce redundancies, and promote a more efficient public sector.

In a bold statement, Museveni urged Ugandans to hold critics accountable for spreading misinformation that sows division and mistrust. He emphasized that if allegations against him prove false, Ugandans should “punish them politically” for their shallowness. This statement underscores Museveni’s commitment to pursuing structural reforms, despite opposition, to achieve a streamlined and more productive government.

The debate surrounding the rationalization program has highlighted polarized views. Opponents express concerns about potential impacts on job security and local industries. However, Museveni’s remarks demonstrate his resolve to push forward with reforms.

As the longest-serving president in Uganda’s history, Museveni has navigated complex political landscapes since taking office in 1986 . His current term has been marked by significant events, including his reelection in 2021 and his role as the Secretary General of the Non-Aligned Movement since January 2024.

President Yoweri Museveni recently addressed the nation with uncharacteristic urgency, vowing to dismantle corruption and exploitation within Uganda’s coffee industry.

His declaration comes amidst growing outcry from coffee farmers across Uganda, who have long suffered from low prices, bureaucratic red tape, and alleged corruption within the Uganda Coffee Development Authority (UCDA).

The UCDA, established to promote sustainable coffee production and productivity, has been marred by allegations of theft, embezzlement, and murky accounting practices.

Museveni’s pledge was sparked by an impassioned statement from leading coffee businessman, John Kasujja, who stepped forward as an unexpected whistleblower.

Kasujja highlighted the challenges faced by coffee farmers, including the difficulty in accessing UCDA officials, who are “highly guarded” ³. His comments cast a spotlight on the secrecy surrounding the UCDA’s inner workings, with many farmers describing it as a “fortress” of secrecy.

The president’s response was stern, warning that the actions of corrupt individuals were undermining his efforts to uplift the industry. “What they do are the things that are making you hated in Buganda,” he said, his voice leaving the audience silent.

Museveni promised a no-holds-barred approach to addressing these grievances, hinting at a task force to investigate UCDA officials with “eyes unblinking and hands unshaking.” Insiders suggest that high-level dismissals and criminal investigations may soon follow, targeting those who have grown rich off the labor of Uganda’s coffee farmers.

As the nation waits, Museveni’s words have sent a ripple of fear through the ranks of those who have exploited Uganda’s coffee sector. His declaration stands as both warning and promise: “Coffee scammers and thieves, be ready.” The president’s commitment to tackling corruption and promoting transparency in the coffee industry is a significant step towards ensuring that Uganda’s coffee farmers receive fair prices and treatment.

The coffee industry is a vital sector in Uganda, with the country aiming to increase coffee production and exports . However, corruption and exploitation have hindered progress, leaving many farmers struggling to make ends meet. Museveni’s pledge to address these issues is a welcome development, and the nation will be watching closely to see if his words are matched by action.