CURANTIS FOUNDATION CALLS ON PARENTS TO CHAMPION INCLUSION FOR CHILDREN WITH DISABILITIES

By Musa Mbogo

Curantis Foundation has called on parents to embrace and champion the inclusion of children with disabilities in all spheres of life. This heartfelt appeal was made during the post-International Day of People with Disabilities celebration held at St. Gyavira Catholic Parish in Bunamwaya.

The event, themed “Amplifying the Leadership of Persons with Disabilities for an Inclusive and Sustainable Future,” highlighted the rights, potential, and leadership of people with disabilities (PWDs) while fostering community awareness about inclusion.

The day kicked off with a vibrant community awareness walk through the streets of Bunamwaya. Participants, including PWDs, community leaders, and local stakeholders, marched in unison, carrying banners and chanting messages of equality and acceptance. The walk symbolized unity and the importance of recognizing the valuable contributions of PWDs to society.

Following the walk, the celebration continued with a mass at St. Gyagira Catholic Church. Revered spiritual leader, Rev. Fr. Francis Ssemuddu delivered a powerful sermon, emphasizing the importance of inclusivity and encouraging PWDs to trust in their abilities. He shared an uplifting story about a man he had met, who was once a beggar in Buganga. Ssemuddu recalled asking the man what he could do with his hands to stop begging, and the man responded that he knew how to craft mats and bags, a skill his father had passed down to him. With a little help and a promise of support, the man began crafting bags instead of begging. Father Ssemuddu explained that the man was able to turn his life around and eventually started selling his bags in the same streets where he had once begged.

Fr. Ssemuddu’s message to the gathered crowd was that, “Everyone can do something to earn a living, whether you’re blind, have no legs or hands, whether you’re deaf or dumb, you can do something and live a good life without depending on others.” He referred to the biblical story of creation, where God created man in His image, asserting, “We all resemble God, disabled or not.”

Teopista Kirumira, Secretary of Curantis Foundation, also spoke passionately about the challenges faced by PWDs. She thanked the participants for joining the celebration and expressed gratitude to Father Ssemuddu for his unwavering support. She highlighted the need for greater government support for PWDs, particularly in the workplace. “Some, who who work in Kampala are often chased away by the KCCA enforcement team, and because they cannot run due to their disabilities. Their belongings are taken, and this is unjust,” she said. She called on the government to prioritize people with disabilities, create designated workspaces, and ensure they have the opportunity to support their families.

Kirumira also spoke out about the importance of family support, particularly for mothers with disabilities. “Some husbands abandon their disabled wives after impregnating them. We need to stand by these women and support them in raising their children. Disability is not inability,” she said. She urged families to avoid isolating PWDs, as this often leads to depression and even suicide. “Visit them, take them to places of worship, and offer them words of hope.”

Addressing attendees, Dorah Namugga, the Curantis Foundation Founder emphasized the significance of breaking societal barriers that isolate PWDs.

Namugga echoed Mrs. Kirumira’s sentiments, stressing the organisations’ mission to empower and provide hope to people with disabilities. “This organization exists to support, provide hope, and empower PWDs,” she explained. She urged parents not to isolate their children with disabilities but to include them in events like this one, church services, and social activities. “By doing so, your children will have the chance to interact with others and receive help from people who are willing but don’t know how to reach them,” she said.

Dorah also encouraged people with disabilities to engage in income generating activities. “Don’t wait for charity. Instead, strive to be economically independent so that you can live without relying on others,” she advised.

One of the most inspiring stories came from Edinah Tumuhime, a person with a disability who has overcome significant challenges in her life. Tumuhime shared her personal journey of resilience, starting with her struggle to find work after being abandoned by her father due to her disability. “My father disowned me when I was young, claiming he couldn’t produce disabled children. But my mother ensured that I went to school and learned English,” she shared. Tumuhime then recounted how, after losing her job due to unfair treatment, she began collecting used bottles and selling them. Eventually, she found work at the town council as a cleaner. “I work sweeping the roads, and now I’m no longer behind,” she said with pride. Her message to others with disabilities was to “Work and avoid begging.”

The day’s activities also included a vibrant talent show where PWDs showcased their skills in music, dance, and art. These performances were a testament to the incredible abilities and creativity within the community. The event also featured a health camp, offering free medical check-ups and consultations to ensure participants had access to essential health services. To further support those in need, Curantis Foundation distributed gift hampers and essential items, reinforcing their commitment to the well-being of such people.

The event concluded with a cloth donation drive, where attendees received not only material support but also renewed hope and a sense of community.

The gathering was a powerful reminder that PWDs are capable of great things. As Father Ssemuddu said, “We all resemble God, disabled or not.” The event demonstrated that with the right support, people with disabilities can lead fulfilling, independent lives and contribute meaningfully to society. The celebration was not just a commemoration but a call to action, urging everyone to embrace inclusivity and ensure that no one is left behind.

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