KAMPALA, Uganda — More than 130 Muslims living with disabilities in Nansana East Zone 2A marked Eid-ul-Fitr celebrations in a memorable way, thanks to the support of Fenna Tujjune, an organisation dedicated to empowering children with disabilities.
The initiative, held today, brought together disabled children and adults for a day of celebration, meals, and community bonding an effort aimed at promoting social inclusion among one of the most underserved groups.
Speaking at the event, Fenna Tujjune Founder and CEO, Ramonah Sarah, emphasized that the organisation has moved beyond advocacy to taking practical steps toward inclusion. She noted that supporting persons with disabilities, especially during important religious celebrations, is a key part of restoring dignity and strengthening community ties.
“We started with advocacy, but now we are acting on what we advocated for social inclusion. Today is a big day as we celebrate Eid with Muslims living with disabilities in Nansana. We have been with them throughout Ramadan, and we are grateful we were able to raise funds to feed over 130 people,” she said.
She expressed hope that future celebrations would reach even more beneficiaries, including communities in Katanga and Kalerwe, but called for increased support from the government, Muslim community, and development partners.
Sarah highlighted several challenges affecting persons with disabilities, particularly those living in informal settlements. She pointed out that limited accessibility to schools, mosques, hospitals, and workplaces continues to hinder their full participation in society.
“Many of them are talented, but they are often viewed as charity cases instead of capable individuals. With the right opportunities, they can work, earn a living, and contribute meaningfully to society,” she added.
She also raised concerns about inadequate infrastructure, lack of mobility aids such as wheelchairs and crutches, and the absence of sign language interpreters in health facilities, which makes access to essential services difficult.
Encouraging persons with disabilities to take charge of their future, Sarah urged them to be confident and actively seek opportunities.
“Do not pity yourselves. Go out and claim your space in society. Some people are willing to include you they just need to see your potential,” she said.
Hon. Robert Sewagudde, National Member of Parliament for persons with disabilities, who was the guest of Honour, commended Fenna Tujjune for its impactful work. He described the initiative as timely and necessary, especially in slum areas where many persons with disabilities live in vulnerable conditions.
He called on other organisations, individuals, and the government to support similar efforts to improve the livelihoods of persons with disabilities.
Ssewagudde noted that many children with disabilities face barriers to education due to financial constraints and negative attitudes from both families and communities. In some cases, he said, children are still hidden at home due to stigma.
“If given equal opportunities in education and employment, persons with disabilities can become productive members of society and contribute to national development,” he said.
He also urged employers to be more inclusive, noting that certain disabilities do not limit a person’s ability to perform effectively. For example, he explained that deaf individuals can communicate through digital platforms like email without necessarily requiring interpreters.
Local leader Namukwaya Faridah, Chairperson of Nansana East Zone 2A, also applauded Fenna Tujjune for its generosity, noting that the support ensured Muslims with disabilities were not left out of Eid-ul-Fitr celebrations.
