Acan Demands Action on Disability-Inclusive Healthcare

What the report says

Ugandan officials and disability advocates gathered in Kampala on Thursday for a national policy dialogue focused on health equity for persons with disabilities. According to Dokolo Post, the meeting took place at Skyz Hotel, Naguru, under the theme of advancing inclusive health systems. The keynote speaker was Hon. Acan Joyce Okeny, Minister of State for Gender, Labour and Social Development in charge of Disability Affairs.

Acan pressed government and health stakeholders to make facilities more accessible, arguing that inclusion is a legal requirement rather than a charitable gesture. She highlighted gaps such as the lack of adjustable beds, wheelchair access, and suitable labour beds, saying these shortcomings affect women with disabilities and little persons who may not be able to use standard hospital equipment safely. She also urged the Ministry of Health to act quickly, particularly at Health Centre IVs, which she described as a key entry point for care.

The report says the discussion also brought up communication barriers in health care, especially the shortage of qualified sign language interpreters. Namukasa Lillian of the National Council for Persons with Disabilities said this leaves people with hearing impairments struggling to understand providers and treatment. Participants identified other obstacles including financial, attitudinal, information, and policy barriers.

Minister of State for Primary Healthcare Charles Ayume acknowledged the challenge and said sign language interpreter recruitment is being handled through the Health Service Commission. He also said he would write to the Ministry of Health permanent secretary about the issues raised. The dialogue pointed to priorities such as disability-inclusive budgeting, accessible infrastructure, assistive devices, and stronger participation by persons with disabilities.