KAMPALA – Members of Uganda Society of Architects have today convened at the International University of East Africa for thier 3rd Annual Sports Gala 2025.
The event, themed “Fundraising for Perkins Braillers and White Canes,” brought together architects, professionals, sponsors, and community members to support a noble cause.
The gala aimed to raise approximately UGX 150 million to purchase 20 Perkins Brailler machines and 50 white canes for visually impaired Ugandans.
Minister for lands and urban development, Hon. Judith Nabakooba who was the chief guest, commended the Uganda Society of Architects for organising this special occasion, not just as an escape from their desks to stretch and to network, but as a heartfelt and kind act of social responsibility.
“This theme reminds us all that community is built through design, architecture, compassion, and inclusion.” Minister said.
She noted that this kind of action enables citizens to be self-sustaining and self-reliant—a thing that NRM government firmly upholds.
“As we gather today, I would like to take a moment to reflect on the significance of Labour Day, which brings to the forefront the themes of social justice and decent work. We must ensure that safety and health are at the core of our workplaces. Every worker deserves a safe environment and fair treatment, as these fundamental human rights should be upheld in every sector, including ours,” she added.
She told Architects that, “Through this fundamental initiative, you are making it possible for visually impaired Ugandans to see the world in their powerful way, through touch, sound, dignity, and love. As a government, we recognise that a truly inclusive society is one where everyone has the tools to succeed regardless of physical ability. A braille machine is not just a device; it is access to education, communication, independence, and empowerment. A white cane is not just a walking aid or stick, as a layperson may call it; it symbolises autonomy, confidence, and the ability to manoeuvre the designed space and world.”
The Minister pledged to continue supporting initiatives that uplift marginalised groups. She encourage other professional bodies to emulate the Uganda Society of Architects and use their platforms to champion causes that benefit the less privileged, noting that together, we can create a Uganda that is more inclusive, more equitable, and more empowered.
The vice president of Uganda society of acrchictects , Jerome Stolwell Olowo noted that among equipment they target to parchase includes; 20 Brailer machines each at 3.5m, and 50 white canes (walking sticks) each at 100,000/=
“In total we are looking for approximately 150 million shillings” he said
He thanked all organisations that have joined the cause forexample Tyrexpress, JKI consultants, Beta inspiration,safeboda, IUEA, UNAB,JIBU, ministry of lands and urban development, among others
Stowell added that as architects, this is a very good cause following many disabled people getting problems in moving, even death, ” recently a school in Mukono registered a number of deaths because the disabled couldn’t help themselves”
Mr. Meerasa Saleem from TYREXPRESS, said that this is a very good cause and promised to bring more friends and associations.
Mr. Anguyo Richard Roy, one of the people with visual impairment,also the chairman of Uganda National Association of the Blind,UNAB, one of the partners in the gala said; “this gala is purposed to raise money for perkins Brailer machines which are equivalent to pens and white canes which are mobility skill for detection and are also in the traffic act, these items are very expensive and not found in Uganda so they need support for the visually impaired.”
These tools are essential for education, communication, and independent navigation among these pepeople, he added.
Through this initiative, Uganda Society of Architects seeks to promote inclusion and empowerment for visually impaired individuals, enabling them to access education and live independently.
The event’s success demonstrates the power of collective action and the importance of giving back to the community.
The Uganda Society of Architects continues to uphold its mission of promoting excellence in architecture while making a positive impact on society.
The event is a testament to the organization’s dedication to social responsibility and community service.
