Empowering Ability: UCC, Eight Tech Consultants, and NUDIPU Equip Persons with Disabilities with ICT Skills in Mukono District.

Mukono District Headquarters:
In a bold step towards digital inclusion, Eight Tech Consultants, Uganda Communications Commission (UCC), and the National Union of Disabled Persons of Uganda (NUDIPU) have teamed up to skill persons with disabilities in vital ICT knowledge. The two-day workshop, held at the Mukono District Headquarters, aimed at bridging the digital divide by equipping participants with practical knowledge in smartphone and computer use.

Themed "Enhancing Knowledge Management, ICT Adaptation, Digital Literacy, and Access to E-Services for Persons with Disabilities," the workshop primarily focused on individuals with visual impairments and those hard of hearing. It was fully sponsored by the Government of Uganda through the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC), in a bid to make digital tools more accessible and useful to all citizens.

Participants were trained on how to use smartphones and computers, with a hands-on approach tailored to their specific needs. Among the highlights of the training was the introduction of assistive technology, such as the Be My Eyes application, which visually impaired users can rely on for navigation and assistance in the absence of caretakers.

Mr. Kisaame Samuel, an ambassador of the ICT project for persons with disabilities and a representative of Eight Tech Consultants and NUDIPU, emphasized the importance of empowering this often-overlooked demographic.

“We focused on giving practical ICT skills to those with visual and hearing impairments. These tools are not luxuries—they are a necessity,” he remarked.

One of the proud beneficiaries, Mr. Jumba Solo Charles from Mpatta and a board member of the Mukono District Union, expressed deep appreciation for the training.

“ICT evolves every day; you have to keep learning. For the first time, I received formal training in ICT tailored for people like me. It’s a game changer,” he shared.
However, he also noted the challenge of accessing quality assistive devices, saying most of the gadgets they receive are substandard and do not meet their specific needs.

Ms. Nanfuka Sarah, another participant, expressed gratitude to UCC and the facilitators.

“We are often forgotten because of our disability, but this training has made me confident. I can now use my smartphone and computer without fear of being cheated,” she said. She also pledged to pass on the knowledge to peers who were unable to attend.

Fatuma Sumaya Asimwe, Councilor for Persons with Disabilities in Namataba Town Council and the NRM Party Chairperson for the same group, thanked President Museveni for continuously championing the needs of persons with disabilities.

“I used to only receive calls and scroll TikTok. Now, I can write and send emails. I’ve gained power, and no scammer will cheat me again,” she confidently said.d

Nakanwagi Annet, the Female Councilor representing Persons with Disabilities at Mukono District and secretary at the district union, also praised the initiative.

“This training proves that we matter. We’ve learned how to use smartphones, especially apps for the blind and mute. The benefits are immense,” she said.

The workshop also featured professional sign language interpreters like Mr. Isaac Rukyamuzi, ensuring that participants with hearing challenges were fully engaged and could understand all components of the training.

This ICT empowerment program is a strong testimony of what inclusive development can achieve when government, civil society, and private sector partners collaborate. It not only brought practical digital skills to people with disabilities but also restored their confidence, independence, and hope for a tech-enabled future.

As Uganda continues to champion the digital transformation agenda, inclusive programs like these are paving the way for a society where no one is left behind.