In a groundbreaking initiative, civil society organizations in Busoga are working together to address the interconnected issues of disability, gender-based violence (GBV), and climate conservation. This holistic approach recognizes the unique challenges faced by women and girls with disabilities (WGDs) and seeks to empower them as agents of change.
The initiative promotes climate-smart agriculture, establishes demonstration gardens, and launches “Go Green” campaigns to plant trees and promote environmental conservation.
Additionally, it fosters an enabling policy environment to eliminate violence against WGDs by integrating prevention and response measures into national and local policy frameworks.
This innovative approach not only addresses the pressing issues faced by WGDs but also contributes to global efforts to combat climate change and promote sustainable development.
Speaking at a media engagement hosted by the Integrated Disabled Women Activities Association (IDIWA) at Ntinda Valley Resort in Iganga town, Mr. Jimmy Jackson Ngolobe, a Programs Officer at IDIWA, emphasized, “Empowering women and girls with disabilities is crucial for driving positive change and creating a more inclusive and equitable society.”
The event aimed to equip journalists with knowledge on disability-inclusive GBV services and the impact of climate change on WGDs, promoting sensitive and effective reporting on the challenges faced by marginalized communities.
In May 2024, IDIWA, in collaboration with Kaliro District Local Government and other organizations, established The Kaliro District Disability-Inclusive Sexual and Gender-Based Violence and Climate Services Policy a groundbreaking initiative addressing the multifaceted challenges faced by persons with disabilities, particularly WGDs.
The policy provides guidance on responding to the sexual and reproductive health needs of persons with disabilities, promoting inclusive access to services, and preventing GBV.
Its core objective is to enhance access to sexual and reproductive health rights for adolescent girls and youth with disabilities, enabling them to reach their full potential in local and national development.
Ms. Hajjirah Kagwa, leader of Women and Girls with Albinism, stated, “The policy aims to integrate the sexual and reproductive health rights, GBV, and climate issues affecting persons with disabilities into mainstream health and development programs.”
People with disabilities face marginalization and discrimination across cultural, educational, economic, and political spheres. Ms. Kagwa stressed that WGDs experience higher rates of violence, discrimination, exclusion, and denial of dignity and autonomy.
The policy, however, recognizes these challenges and prioritizes inclusive access to services. It outlines principles, objectives, priority areas, and actions for promoting the sexual and reproductive health rights of persons with disabilities. A coordinated approach involving multiple sectors and stakeholders is emphasized to ensure inclusive service delivery and GBV prevention.
Uganda has made significant strides in promoting the rights of persons with disabilities and is a signatory to key international conventions, including;
- The Convention on Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment of Disabled Persons (1983)
- The Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW)
- The Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD, 2008)
The 1995 Constitution of Uganda also upholds gender equality, promoting women’s participation in decision-making at all levels. Article 21(1) guarantees equal rights for all citizens under the law, irrespective of gender or disability.
Furthermore, Uganda has developed policies to address GBV, including:
- National Gender Policy (2007)
- GBV Policy (2012)
- Domestic Violence Act (2010)
- Prevention of Trafficking in Persons Act (2009)
However, despite these legal frameworks, there remains a significant gap between policy and practice. Challenges such as inadequate funding, low policy awareness, and inconsistencies in implementation persist.
According to reports on disability, Uganda’s legislative and policy framework is considered one of the strongest in sub-Saharan Africa. The government has adopted a community representation approach, focusing on the abilities of persons with disabilities rather than their limitations.
The Kaliro District Disability-Inclusive Policy aligns with this model by promoting inclusive programs and accessible services for WGDs.
However, Mr. Akram Kakuuma, IDIWA’s Communications Officer, highlights the ongoing challenges faced by persons with disabilities, including:
- Limited access to climate information and adaptation measures
- Disproportionate impact of environmental hazards
- Exclusion from environmental decision-making processes
- Economic marginalization and intersectional discrimination
“The goal of this policy is to ensure that persons with disabilities receive equal access to services and opportunities within the district,” Kakuuma explained.
“It is designed to complement existing district policies and programs while mainstreaming disability issues into all governance structures.”
The policy applies to all employees and officials within the district local government, with implementation oversight by the Community Development Directorate, District Environment Officer, and sub-county officers.
Ms. Anna Grace Asio, a visually impaired Programs Officer for Gender-Disability and Climate Justice at IDIWA, emphasized the need for equal rights and respect for persons with disabilities.
“As a visually impaired person, I can do everything anyone else can,” she affirmed.
“We feel valued when treated with dignity and respect, not discriminated against in our own communities.”
Ms. Asio condemned those who violate the rights of persons with disabilities, asserting that they deserve to live dignified lives, free from marginalization and abuse.
While Uganda has made progress in advancing disability rights, significant gaps remain. The Kaliro District Disability-Inclusive Sexual and Gender-Based Violence and Climate Services Policy is a crucial step toward bridging these gaps and ensuring the protection and empowerment of persons with disabilities especially women and girls.
