Kampala, Uganda – 26 September 2025
The African Disability Forum (ADF), in partnership with the National Union of Disabled Persons of Uganda (NUDIPU) and other stakeholders, proudly marked the close-out of the We are Able! (WaA!) programme in Kampala on Friday, 26 September 2025. This celebration is part of a series of national ceremonies taking place across six African countries as the five-year programme (2021–2025) concludes.
We are Able! has been a flagship initiative in Uganda and beyond, working to strengthen the voices and capacity of Organizations of Persons with Disabilities (OPDs), influence policy change, and promote disability-inclusive governance and development. Over the past five years, the programme has built strong partnerships, amplified advocacy, and fostered greater inclusion of persons with disabilities in national and community development processes.
Highlights of the Kampala Ceremony
The event brought together government representatives, consortium partners, OPDs, international NGOs, UN Agencies, the donor community including Ambassador of the Embassy of the Kingdom of The Netherlands, and other dignitaries to celebrate WaA!’s achievements and reaffirm commitments to disability inclusion in Uganda.
Key sessions of the day included: Official opening followed by a summary of WaA!’s achievements and impact in Uganda, showcasing how OPDs have been empowered to effectively advocate for their rights and engage in decision-making processes presented.Panel Discussion held highlighting successes, challenges, and opportunities for the disability movement in Uganda.A short film capturing inspiring stories and key milestones achieved under the programme screened. Certificates of Recognition was awarded to partners and participants for their contributions to the programme’s success. A symbolic celebration of five years of collaboration and impact made in cake cutting. The event conlluded with a pledge for continued dedication to advancing disability inclusive food security and disability-inclusive development beyond WaA!.
In her opening remarks, the Chief Executive Officer of NUDIPU, a member organization of ADF, expressed heartfelt appreciation for the technical support NUDIPU has received from ADF throughout the five years of the programme’s implementation. She emphasized that this partnership has been critical in strengthening NUDIPU’s advocacy efforts and enhancing its capacity to influence disability-inclusive policy and practice in Uganda.
As the We are Able! programme concludes in Uganda, its legacy is already visible in the stronger OPDs, improved collaboration with government and partners, and greater awareness of disability rights.
The African Disability Forum remains committed to working with NUDIPU and all stakeholders and partners to ensure that the gains made are not only sustained but also expanded. Together, we will continue to advance the vision of an inclusive Africa where persons with disabilities are empowered to claim their rights, shape their futures, and contribute fully to society.
The close of WaA! marks not an end, but a transition to renewed collaboration, shared responsibility, and deeper commitment to disability-inclusive development in Uganda and across the continent.
