Prosper Byonanebye

I was yesterday in Lira District for a regional engagement with leaders of Persons with Disabilities, together with security heads of Lira City and District and the Chief Administrative Officer, Mr. Ismael Ochengel. Upon arrival at the Lira District Council Hall, I found that the building had no wheelchair ramp. As a wheelchair user myself, I could not access the hall. I therefore refused to enter and directed that our meeting be held under the verandah. I did this not out of anger, but in protest against the continued exclusion of Persons with Disabilities from public spaces. This is a violation of Section 19 of the Persons with Disabilities Act, 2020 and Section 30 of the Building Control Act, 2013, which clearly mandate that all public buildings must be accessible to all Ugandans, including Persons with Disabilities. Denying access is discrimination. It should be remembered that this is not the first time I am facing this challenge. Just last month, I faced the same humiliating barrier in Jinja City and Mbarara, where I failed to access government buildings and offices for lack of wheelchair ramps. I have ordered the CAO of Lira District to construct an accessible ramp immediately. He has apologized, calling it an oversight, and committed to act urgently. Furthermore, I wish to announce that I will very soon embark on a nationwide tour of all public facilities to ensure they meet accessibility standards. Let me be clear: Accounting Officers whose facilities will be found wanting will definitely face the consequences. Accessibility is not a favour, it is a right.

I am honored to be invited as Chief Guest for the MUBS Disability Awareness Day 2026 organized by the MUBS Disability Resource and Learning Centre under the theme “Promoting Disability Inclusion Through Sports and Games.” Sports and games are a powerful tool to break barriers, build confidence and foster unity. This day is about celebrating ability and reaffirming our collective commitment to an inclusive society where no one is left behind. I look forward to joining the students, staff and the entire MUBS community to Participate, Interact and Experience Inclusion TOGETHER. I thank the leadership of Makerere University Business School for this great initiative. #DisabilityInclusion #MUBSDisabilityDay2026 #InclusiveUganda