Florence Namaganda, founder of the Special Children’s Trust, has urged the government to amend public service delivery programs to better support children with disabilities.
Speaking at the 10th Awareness and Fun Day for disabled children at Lugogo Indoor Stadium in Kampala, she decried the high costs of imported facilities and equipment, such as wheelchairs, due to heavy taxation, calling for reduced taxes to make these items more affordable for mobility and care.
With nearly 8,000 children at Dawn Children’s Centre, Namaganda advocated for subsidized education and inclusive schooling to accommodate the large population of disabled children, as current schools lack capacity.
She also appealed for government support to provide affordable diapers, better nutrition, and accessible public transport vehicles to improve their quality of life.
Dr. Moses Muwanga, Assistant Commissioner for Health Services, commended local and international partners for their support, encouraged continued voluntary services, and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to collaborate with disability organizations to enhance welfare, including better nutrition, transport, and access to equipment.
He also highlighted the importance of antenatal care to prevent disabilities and praised Mildmay Uganda for funding a medical facility project for disabled children.
Mpindi Bumaali, MP for Central Region (PWD), assured that reforms are underway, including engaging the Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) and the Ministry of Finance to reduce taxes on imported medical equipment and advocating for a Disability Special Grant, currently under cabinet review, to improve access to funding and facilities.
He expressed optimism that these policy changes, if passed into law, will address key challenges faced by disabled children and their families.
The proposed Disability Special Grant and tax reductions could complement ongoing budget reforms, such as the Shs 72.1 trillion 2025/26 budget emphasizing inclusive tax policies.
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