Kampala —
The “Run for the Blind” occasion takes place on November 17, State Minister for Incapacity Affairs Hellen Grace Asamo stated, and can coincide with the observance of Worldwide White Cane Day, which shall be celebrated later this 12 months to advertise consciousness concerning the rights and desires of the visually impaired neighborhood.
The Speaker of Parliament, Anita Amongst, will headline a monumental fundraising marathon to lift funds for the federal government’s quest to supply 10,000 white canes for the blind.
Tjhe “Run for the Blind” occasion takes place on November 17, State Minister for Incapacity Affairs Hellen Grace Asamo stated, and can coincide with the observance of Worldwide White Cane Day, which shall be celebrated later this 12 months to advertise consciousness concerning the rights and desires of the visually impaired neighborhood.
In her assertion, Minister Asamo emphasised the importance of the occasion, which goals to lift 10,000 white canes for people with blindness.
“The nationwide theme for this 12 months, ‘A White Cane for Each Blind Individual,’ underscores our dedication to making a safer and extra inclusive setting for all Ugandans, notably these with visible impairments,” she stated.
The marathon, which begins at 6am at Kati Kati Grounds in Lugogo, is designed not solely to advertise using white canes as important mobility aids but additionally to encourage public participation in fostering accessibility for individuals with disabilities.
The occasion will conclude with a closing ceremony at 10pm, presided over by Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja, who will function the Chief Visitor.
Minister Asamo urged Ugandans to rally behind this noble trigger, stressing the significance of breaking down accessibility limitations confronted by the visually impaired.
“Many people with blindness wrestle to entry important providers equivalent to schooling, healthcare, and employment attributable to mobility challenges. This occasion is essential for elevating consciousness and funding to help their wants,” she remarked.
White canes function important instruments for independence and mobility, enabling visually impaired people to navigate their environment safely.
“The white cane is not only a logo; it’s a vital gadget that empowers people to stay independently and confidently,” Minister Asamo defined.
Fundraising Initiatives
Individuals wishing to affix the marathon can register utilizing the MTN MoMo Code 710075 or Airtel Pay Code 4370414, with registration charges set at Shs25,000.
Donations may also be made by UBA Financial institution, A/C 0103017389, within the identify of the Uganda Nationwide Affiliation of the Blind. All proceeds from the marathon shall be directed in direction of buying the much-needed white canes for the visually impaired neighborhood.
Uganda has made commendable strides in incapacity inclusion, as highlighted by Minister Asamo.
The federal government has ratified worldwide agreements such because the UN Conference on the Rights of Individuals with Disabilities (CRPD) and the African Union Protocol on the Rights of Individuals with Disabilities.
“Uganda was among the many first nations to ratify the CRPD and has since amended its nationwide insurance policies to align with these worldwide requirements,” she famous.
The federal government has additionally established 37 particular main colleges and 20 secondary colleges devoted to youngsters with visible impairments, making certain entry to high quality schooling.
Furthermore, there are particular quotas in place for the admission of scholars with disabilities in public universities, permitting many to pursue numerous programs yearly.
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The federal government is dedicated to bettering healthcare entry, employment alternatives, and social inclusion for individuals with disabilities.
“For the primary time, we now have a Justice of the Peace with visible impairment serving within the judiciary, together with a number of different officers in numerous ministries,” Minister Asamo stated.
Because the marathon approaches, Minister Asamo urged each Ugandan to take part actively, stating, “Collectively, we are able to be sure that no individual with visible impairment is left behind. A white cane for each blind individual is not only a dream; it’s our collective accountability.”
The occasion guarantees to be a big step ahead in selling the rights and inclusion of individuals with visible impairments in Uganda.
With the help of neighborhood members, the federal government, and numerous companions, the initiative seeks to create a extra equitable society for all.
