Kamuli PWDs Call for Inclusiveness in Access to Services

Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) in Kamuli District are raising urgent concerns over continued exclusion from essential public services due to inaccessible office infrastructure.

They are calling on the government to construct inclusive, disability-friendly public buildings that allow all citizens equal access to services.

According to Joy Nakyeswa, the Councillor representing PWDs in Kamuli Municipality, many of the public offices, including both party and independent electoral offices, are located in rented buildings that are not accessible to persons with disabilities.

These buildings lack ramps, accessible entrances, and other necessary facilities, making it extremely difficult for people with mobility challenges to access services.

"Sometimes we arrive in the morning and leave in the evening without being able to enter the office," Nakyeswa noted.

"These offices were not built with us in mind. Even when it rains or the sun is too hot, we are left outside without shelter or assistance."

Nakyeswa stressed that PWDs have the same rights as all other citizens and their votes count, yet they feel neglected and sidelined in service delivery.

She noted that while PWDs are often courted during election campaigns, they are quickly forgotten once elections are over.

"We only become visible during campaigns. Once leaders are voted in, we disappear from their priorities," she added.

Echoing her sentiments, David Wasajja, the chairperson for PWDs in Kamuli Municipality, expressed deep frustration and disillusionment, stating that many PWDs are beginning to lose faith in the electoral process because of continued marginalization.

“I personally don’t see the value of voting anymore,” said Wasajja. “We are always left behind. Nothing changes for us even after casting our votes.”

The PWD leadership is now appealing to the central government, local authorities, and the Electoral Commission to take urgent steps to ensure that all public buildings — including those used for political and electoral processes are accessible to everyone, regardless of physical ability.

They also emphasized that rehabilitation of existing offices should be considered where possible, but for rented spaces that cannot be modified, relocation to accessible premises should be prioritized.

Efforts to reach Kamuli’s newly elected district chairman and his team for a response were unsuccessful, as phone calls to their known numbers went unanswered by press time.

As Uganda continues its efforts toward inclusive development and governance, the demands from Kamuli’s PWD community highlight a critical gap in service accessibility that requires immediate and sustained attention.