Architects Society announces Third Annual Sports Gala

The Uganda Society of Architects (USA) has announced the third Annual Sports Gala, set for May 1, 2025, at the International University of East Africa.

This year’s gala is themed “Fundraising for Perkins Braillers and White Canes”, with proceeds going toward supporting visually impaired individuals in Uganda.

USA Vice President Arch. Jerome Stolwell Olowo emphasized the urgent need for assistive tools, noting that the organization aims to raise shs150 million to purchase 20 Perkins Braillers (each costing shs 3.5 million) and 50 white canes (at shs 100,000 each).

He urged the public, sponsors, and partners to support the cause through various sponsorship packages.

“This is a vital cause,” he said. “People with disabilities face immense challenges, including loss of life due to limited mobility. Let’s come together, like ants, and make a difference.”

Mr. Mugume Amon from the Uganda National Association of the Blind (UNAB) shared that as of 2024, 13.6% of Uganda’s population are persons with disabilities, with 6.6% being visually impaired—making them the largest disability group. He called on the government to implement inclusive policies and increase budget support for persons with disabilities.

Joshua Okino, the gala event organiser, stressed the importance of inclusion.

“We want to show the disabled that they matter. Security will be a top priority, and we’ll provide tents, food, and drinks for all attendees.”

Mr. Meerasa Saleem from Tyre Express, one of the sponsors, said: “This is a cause rooted in humanity. We’re proud to support and will rally more partners to join us.”

Mariam Kaddu, one of the vendors, described the initiative as “a powerful act of social justice.”