Athletics

Uganda: Speaker Amongst to Run for the Blind

October 17, 2024
Ibrahim

Kampala —

The “Run for the Blind” occasion takes place on November 17, State Minister for Incapacity Affairs Hellen Grace Asamo mentioned, and can coincide with the observance of Worldwide White Cane Day, which might be celebrated later this yr to advertise consciousness in regards to the rights and wishes of the visually impaired group.

The Speaker of Parliament, Anita Amongst, will headline a monumental fundraising marathon to boost 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 mentioned, and can coincide with the observance of Worldwide White Cane Day, which might be celebrated later this yr to advertise consciousness in regards to the rights and wishes of the visually impaired group.

In her assertion, Minister Asamo emphasised the importance of the occasion, which goals to boost 10,000 white canes for people with blindness.

“The nationwide theme for this yr, ‘A White Cane for Each Blind Individual,’ underscores our dedication to making a safer and extra inclusive surroundings for all Ugandans, significantly these with visible impairments,” she mentioned.

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 battle to entry important companies corresponding to training, healthcare, and employment resulting from mobility challenges. This occasion is essential for elevating consciousness and funding to help their wants,” she remarked.

White canes function very important instruments for independence and mobility, enabling visually impaired people to navigate their environment safely.

“The white cane is not only an emblem; it’s an important gadget that empowers people to reside independently and confidently,” Minister Asamo defined.

Fundraising Initiatives

Members 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 via UBA Financial institution, A/C 0103017389, within the identify of the Uganda Nationwide Affiliation of the Blind. All proceeds from the marathon might be directed in direction of buying the much-needed white canes for the visually impaired group.

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 major faculties and 20 secondary faculties devoted to youngsters with visible impairments, guaranteeing entry to high quality training.

Furthermore, there are particular quotas in place for the admission of scholars with disabilities in public universities, permitting many to pursue varied programs yearly.