Disability Rights Uganda Project #52103

Restore Lives of 100 Children with Disabilities.

by Joy for Children-Uganda

Project Report | Jul 31, 2026
LINKING CHILDREN TO CARE AND EDUCATION.

By Agatha Musiimenta | Project coordinator

Micheal (not real name) and His Mother

Dear our generous supporters,

This month Joy for Children Uganda carried out community outreaches in Bwaise (slum area in Kampala), our team visited 10 households to identify children living with disabilities who are unable to access education and essential healthcare. The visits revealed that many families are living in extreme poverty and face daily challenges in providing food, medical care, rehabilitation, and school-related support for their children. These assessments were intended to enable us better understand the urgent needs of children with disabilities and ensuring that these are not left behind.

One story that touched us deeply is that of Michael (real name withheld), a six-year-old boy living with a physical disability. Michael lives with his mother and four siblings in a small temporary shelter. His mother, a single parent, survives on casual labour, but her earnings are not enough to meet the family's basic needs. As a result, Michael has never had the opportunity to attend school or receive the medical assessment and rehabilitation services he needs. Despite these challenges, he is cheerful, curious, and eager to learn. His mother shared that her greatest wish is to see Michael in a classroom alongside other children, receiving an education and the care he deserves.

Michael's story is not that different from what we observed. Throughout our field visits, we met several children living with disabilities whose potential is limited not by their abilities, but poverty. Many families cannot afford school fees, assistive devices and are not aware of the health services available that can help them at no cost, or get specialized treatment. Without timely intervention, these children risk remaining excluded from education and missing the opportunity to receive the medical assessments and treatment that could significantly improve their quality of life.

These visits have inspired us to take action. We are working towards;

Establishing partnerships with CoRSU Hospital, to facilitate specialized medical assessments, rehabilitation services, and corrective surgery for children who need it.
Enroll children living with disabilities in inclusive schools so they can access quality education under our sponsorship program.
Provide therapeutic and rehabilitation services to improve children's wellbeing and development.
Supply scholastic materials and other essential learning resources to support children as they begin or continue their education.
Continuously work closely with families to ensure children receive the care, support, and opportunities they need to thrive.

Thank you for standing with us as we work to build a future where every child is included and given the chance to reach their full potential.

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May 25, 2026
BEYOND THE BARRIERS

By Agatha Musiimenta | Project coordinator

BEYOND THE BARRIERS; The struggles of children with walking Disabilities in Rural
Areas of Uganda.
In Bunyangabu District, Edith lives with her mother, who tells her story of struggle. Edith has a
walking disability and finds it hard to move along rough village paths. Her mother explains how
difficult it is to care for her, especially when she cannot go to school or access support easily. Edith’s
experience reflects the challenges many children with disabilities face in rural areas. However, there
are other disabilities like; visual impairment, hearing impairment, speech and language disabilities,
intellectual disabilities, developmental disabilities and multiple disabilities. Edith cannot do any
simple activities such as going to school, visiting a health centre, or joining friends at play without
support. In Uganda, while about 8-9% of children live with disabilities, and 2-4 % have walking
challenges especially in rural areas where roads, schools, and health services are not easily
accessible.
One of the biggest challenges faced by children with walking disabilities in rural areas is poor
accessibility. Roads are often rough, muddy and unsafe, making movement very difficult for children
who use crutches, wheelchairs, or have limited mobility. Schools are located far from home with a
distance of 3-5Km, forcing children to walk long distances that they cannot manage. As a result, 50%
of the children with walking disabilities stay at home and miss out on their education and also limits
them to their chances of building their future. Even when they attend school, many buildings lack
ramps, accessible toilets and supportive learning environments.
Health care services are for children with walking disabilities are very expensive especially those
living in rural areas. These services include; Physiotherapy services, Regular check-ups, medical
specialists and provision of assistive devices such as wheelchairs, crutches and braces are usually
found in towns far away from villages. However 50% of families in Uganda cannot afford transport
or treatment costs, leaving children without proper medical care and support.
In addition to physical challenges, these children often experience social isolation and
discrimination. Some communities still hold negative beliefs about walking disabilities as they are
caused by curses, punishments or bad luck. Others think that children with walking disabilities are
not capable of learning, working or contributing to the society.
Despite these difficulties, Joy for children Uganda has supported children living with disabilities
through education support, community awareness, psychosocial care and advocacy for inclusion and
equal rights. So communities, schools, government, organisations, families must work together to
create an inclusive environment where every child feels valued and respected. Building accessible
schools, improving health services.
Children with disabilities deserve love, education, protection, and the chance to achieve their
dreams just like any other child. With support from families, government, schools, communities and
organisations these children with walking disabilities can overcome barriers and achieve their
dreams.

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Dec 23, 2025
Creating Inclusive Communities for Children with Disabilities

By Atim Racheal | Fundraiser

Children with disabilities in Uganda face a range of challenges, yet they demonstrate remarkable resilience and potential when given access to supportive environments. At Joy for Children Uganda, we work to create opportunities through advocacy, education, and empowerment, ensuring that these children and their families receive the support they need to participate fully in school and community life.

In 2025, our initiatives have made a tangible difference in the lives of many children. Through advocacy, we have engaged communities and stakeholders to raise awareness about the rights and abilities of children with disabilities, promoting inclusive practices in schools and neighborhoods. Our educational programs have enabled children to access learning opportunities tailored to their needs, helping them develop skills, confidence, and a sense of belonging. Empowerment activities have strengthened children and families alike, providing guidance, mentorship, and practical support that encourages independence and active participation in daily life.

The impact of these efforts is evident across the communities we serve. Children are more engaged in school and social activities, families are better equipped to support them, and communities are increasingly embracing inclusion. These changes highlight the value of consistent support and the positive outcomes that advocacy, education, and empowerment can bring.

Looking ahead, Joy for Children Uganda aims to expand its programs to reach more children and families, deepening our impact and fostering inclusive communities across Uganda. With the continued support of our donors, we can ensure that children with disabilities are not only supported but celebrated, enabling them to grow, learn, and take their place as active members of society.

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