Health Minister Dr. Jane Ruth Aceng has launched a nationwide wheelchair donation program to support Persons with Disabilities (PLWDs) in Uganda. The program started in Lira District, where 50 PWDs received wheelchairs, while others got tricycles and crutches.

Dr. Aceng explained that access to assistive devices like wheelchairs and white canes is a major challenge for PWDs. She emphasized that the donation aims to make rehabilitative healthcare services more accessible. She also urged the public to embrace routine polio vaccination to prevent disabilities caused by the virus.

Matthew Omara, the Chairperson of PWDs in Lira, highlighted that many people with disabilities struggle to access government services due to a lack of mobility appliances. He urged the government to reduce taxes on assistive devices.

Beneficiaries like Miriam Marion Auma, who lost her tricycle last year, expressed gratitude, saying the donation will improve her mobility and livelihood. Dorcus Owor, a parent of a 10-year-old boy with disabilities, welcomed the support but stressed the need for attendants to help children with special needs.

The donation was made possible through the support of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. Church representative Patrick Orumbi stated that their Humanitarian Aid program has been helping people worldwide with services like safe drinking water, immunization, and maternal care.

Currently, only 2% of the 12.4% of Ugandans living with disabilities have access to assistive technology. Dr. Aceng’s initiative is a step toward improving their lives in Lira and beyond.