Evaluating the Participation of Disabled People in Income Generating Activities in Jinja Municipal Council of Uganda

Abstract

The study evaluates the participation of disabled people in income-generating activities in Jinja Municipal Council of Uganda. Findings revealed that there are many challenges that a person with disabilities has to go through to secure employment and keep it. In some cases, you might find that people with disabilities are paid less than their counterparts without disability. In other cases, you will find them being mistreated at their workplaces and looked down upon as people who cannot be relied on simply because of their disability. It is in light of this that the study calls for continuous national sensitization and awareness of issues concerning PWDs. This would enhance attitude change since most people have a stereotypical understanding of the causes of disability. This is a result of the various cultural beliefs and ignorance among the communities. Above all the sensitization will let PWDs get informed on their rights to participation in IGAs. More so, there is a need for capacity building in PWDs for sustainability through education and training in starting and managing IGAs, record keeping, savings, and marketing among others to build on their knowledge and skills. Finally, the government and other development stakeholders should ensure free and fair access to IGAs and their resources. This can be done through adjustment of the environment to increase freedom and access to all the spheres of the community. Keywords: Cultural beliefs, disabled people, Government intervention, Income-generating activities, Small-scale agriculture, Stigmatization