Eid celebrations in the slums of Nansana East II A took on a powerful tone of empowerment as persons with disabilities (PWDs) were challenged to step forward, assert their abilities, and break barriers that have long kept them on the margins.
The event, organized by Fenna Tujjune, brought together over 130 Muslim PWDs to celebrate Eid al-Fitr.
Fenna Tujjune has moved with these people throughout Ramadan, offering iftar to this community.
During the Eid celebrations, the message extended far beyond the festive moment, calling for confidence, opportunity, and societal change.
Addressing the gathering, CEO Sarah Ramonah Olunda urged PWDs to take control of their future and actively participate in society.
“Stop pitting yourself, let’s go and claim our space. You have to show people that without this physical ability, I can do much more,” she said.
Olunda noted that while many interventions focus on aid, the real need is empowerment and independence.
“We’ve been with them since the beginning of Ramadan to the end, but we want to see a generation of persons with disabilities who are self-sufficient, who can afford what they need without relying on handouts.”
She highlighted that one of the biggest barriers remains accessibility, especially for those living in informal settlements.
“They cannot access schools, mosques, or even hospitals easily. During Ramadan, some couldn’t even reach places where food was being distributed. We had to take it to them.”
She added that despite their potential, many PWDs are still judged unfairly.
“People are very talented, but they are looked at as charity cases. It’s rare to find someone giving them a chance to work.”
Olunda also raised concern over the cost of assistive devices.
“A wheelchair is expensive, and even when we want to help, taxes make it hard. We ask the government to make these things affordable so people can move and live with dignity.”
National MP-elect for PWDs, Robert Sewagudde, reinforced the call for self-belief and equal opportunity.
“Your disability isn’t inability. Go out there, ask for jobs, there’s a lot you can do,” he said.
He also pointed to persistent stigma and lack of education as key challenges.
“Some parents hide their children because of their condition. Many have dropped out of school because of lack of fees. This must change.”
Sewagudde urged employers to rethink their perceptions.
“Don’t first look at how we are, consider what we can do. Give us a chance.”
Local Chairperson Faridah Namukwaya praised Fenna Tujjune for consistently supporting the community.
“We thank them for walking with our people from the beginning of Ramadan up to Eid. There are many children here who still need support.”
Through initiatives like hotbox making and plans to involve men in assembling clean cookstoves, Fenna Tujjune is working to ensure that PWDs earn a living and regain independence.
At the event, over 130 Muslim PWDs were treated to an Eid lunch with entertainment and encouraging messages.
