Kampala, Uganda: The Uganda Society of Architects (USA) has donated Shs8 million to the Uganda National Association of the Blind (UNAB) to support the purchase of Braille machines and white canes—tools critical for the learning and independence of visually impaired persons.
The cheque was formally handed over by Mr Jasilwanyi Olowo Jerome, Vice President of the society, to Mr Anguyo Richard, the UNAB Chairperson, in the presence of the Executive Director, Mr Denis Tumwebaze, at the Society’s Secretariat located at Bible House on Bombo Road.
“The dream has come true—thank you, USA, for mobilising,” Mr Anguyo said while receiving the donation.
The donation stems from a fundraising drive initiated during USA’s 3rd Annual Sports Gala held on Labour Day, May 1, 2025, at the International University of East Africa (IUEA) in Makindye.
The campaign, themed “Fundraising for Braillers and White Canes,” was launched by the Minister of Lands, Housing and Urban Development, Hon Judith Nabakooba, with a rallying call to integrate persons with disabilities in both public and private spaces through inclusive architectural design.
Minister Nabakooba, while launching the campaign, hailed the architects for going beyond recreation to embrace social responsibility. “This theme reminds us that community is built through design, architecture, compassion, and inclusion. Such action enables citizens to be self-reliant, a value the NRM government strongly upholds,” she said.
She also used the occasion to highlight the broader significance of Labour Day, calling on architects and professionals to uphold safety and dignity in workplaces and society at large.
Speaking to DailyExpress, Mr Jasilwanyi Olowo Jerome emphasized that inclusive design should be treated as a right, not a favour. “We are pushing for every new development in Uganda to factor in accessibility. People with disabilities should be able to access homes, schools, and workplaces without constant assistance,” he said.
The Uganda Society of Architects’ growing advocacy for inclusive infrastructure is aligned with global disability rights movements and Uganda’s commitments under the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.
UNAB has welcomed the support, terming it a critical milestone in enhancing mobility and access to education for the blind community.
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