Disability Inclusion: Amplifying Voices and Fostering Change within Workplaces

Persons with disabilities make up 16.5% of Uganda’s population, many of whom require access to care support services not only for basic day-to-day activities but also for their effective participation in the social-economic and political life of their community (UBOS 2018 (Uganda Functional Difficulties Survey 2017).

Individuals with disabilities often face a variety of challenges in the workplace, which are further compounded by environmental, attitudinal, and institutional barriers. These barriers significantly limit the ability of people with disabilities to access and participate in diverse employment opportunities.

?Last week, GIZ Uganda hosted a hybrid awareness and learning session on disability inclusion The learning session was attended by GIZ Uganda’s management team and the entire GIZ Uganda staff, to deepen understanding of disability inclusion and empower employees to incorporate best practices within GIZ and across their various projects. ?

The 2-hour session was facilitated by Mr. Ronald Kasule, a disability Inclusion Specialist and CEO of Diversity Ability Support Network System (DASUNS) LTD, He highlighted the key gaps and challenges faced by people with disabilities (PWDs) and discussed ways that a company like GIZ and individuals could work to address these issues and empower PWDs. The session also covered topics such as increasing general awareness of disability inclusion, implementing disability-inclusive programming, and strategies for driving institutional change.

“Thinking inclusion is innovative and can improve the lives of all individuals” Ramps were invented to enhance mobility for people with physical disabilities, but you’ll notice that ramps are used by everyone, not just those with impairments.” said Ronald.

?This training session empowered GIZ Uganda staff to reflect on the importance of supporting persons with disabilities. By championing the rights and social inclusion of persons with disabilities, the company not only advance poverty reduction but also ensures equitable treatment for all marginalized groups.

Fostering the inclusion of persons with disabilities is a responsibility shared by all of society. This promotes social cohesion by combating discrimination and disadvantage.

GIZ is committed to safeguarding the rights of persons with disabilities. In Uganda, GIZ’s Disability Inclusion Task Force works to integrate disability inclusion across the workplace, programming, and society at large.