Members of Parliament under the Parliamentary Forum for Persons with Disabilities, together with the National Union of Disabled Persons of Uganda (NUDIPU), have called on government to lower taxes on the importation and production of rehabilitation materials and assistive devices.
The move, they say, would reduce the financial burden on persons with disabilities, who often face both social and economic challenges.
The call followed a petition presented by NUDIPU to the forum during a meeting at Parliament discussing the state of orthopedic workshops across the country.
Kyegegwa District Woman MP Flavia Kabahenda said: “Parliament must push for the scrapping of taxes on essential items such as nappies, which are not only used by babies but also by older persons and those living with disabilities.”
Nakawa East MP Ronald Balimwezo echoed her sentiments, emphasizing that accessibility to affordable assistive devices is critical for the dignity and independence of persons with disabilities.
NUDIPU programme officer David Nangosi highlighted the challenges faced by health facilities serving persons with disabilities, noting that half are in poor condition and lack the necessary equipment for treatment and rehabilitation.
He urged the government to prioritize renovations and offer tax incentives that would make assistive devices more affordable.