By Jamirah Khassim
Rose Akyayo, a representative of the National Union of Women with Disabilities of Uganda (NUWODU), has emphasised the critical role the organisation plays in advocating for the rights and empowerment of women and girls with disabilities across the country.
Speaking during the launch of RDE- AIPSSDU project, Akyayo highlighted that NUWODU is a fully registered non-governmental organisation dedicated to being the voice of women and girls with disabilities. She pointed out the persistent challenges faced by this marginalised group, particularly in asserting their rights and accessing protection from gender-based violence.
“In most spheres, women don’t know that they have rights over their bodies,” Akyayo said. “During gender-based violence, these women are nowhere to be seen.”
Akyayo stressed the importance of building confidence, self-reliance, and strength among women with disabilities through NUWODU’s initiatives.
“NUWODU, we build confidence, self-reliance, and strength within the females with disabilities,” she stated.
The organisation is part of a consortium that includes the National Union of Disabled Persons of Uganda (NUDIPU) and the Albinism Umbrella. Together, they work to link women with disabilities to job opportunities and promote inclusion in development programs.
“As NUWODU, we are very appreciative to be part of the consortium, and we promise to work hand in hand,” Akyayo added.
She also called for increased awareness about the Parish Development Model (PDM), emphasising that better understanding of the program is essential for villagers especially those with disabilities to fully benefit from it.
