Maracha leaders vow continued support for persons with disabilities
Some of the members of Maracha district PWDs Union attending the function on Wednesday
MARACHA – Leaders in Maracha District have reaffirmed their commitment to supporting persons with disabilities (PWDs) to enable them live dignified and independent lives alongside other citizens.
The pledge was made by Bosco Asea, the District Vice Chairperson, on behalf of the district leadership during the commemoration of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence held at Maracha Town Council headquarters on Wednesday, December 10, 2025.
The event, held under the national theme “Unite to End Digital Violence Against All Women and Girls,” was organized by the Maracha Union of Persons with Disabilities with support from partners including Humanity & Inclusion.
Speaking as the guest of honor at the function, Asea said the government remains committed to economically empowering PWDs through various programs, including the Parish Development Model (PDM).
“The government has created many programs for special interest groups. We have disability grants, the PDM which specifically targets PWDs, activities under community development offices, and we continue to call upon partners to support PWDs in the district. All this is aimed at ensuring that persons with disabilities are empowered to live well within the community,” Asea said.
He revealed that the district is currently compiling comprehensive disability data through local leaders to establish the exact number of PWDs, which will improve planning and service delivery.
“Once we identify and reach every person with disability in the district, coordination will be easier and no one will be left behind in accessing government programs,” he added.
Asea also highlighted the growing challenge of digital violence against women and girls, particularly those with disabilities, saying increased awareness and sensitization are key to addressing the vice.
Henry Orijabo, the Maracha Town Council Chairperson, commended PWDs for embracing their status and urged them to change their mindset and recognize their abilities.
“You have teachers, parish chiefs, nurses, and people in many other professions among you. What remains is for you to accept that, despite your condition, you can do what others do,” Orijabo said.
He assured the gathering that the government, both at the district and national level, has not forgotten PWDs, citing the ongoing Disability Grant program through which beneficiaries receive livestock.
“In Maracha Town Council alone, 18 groups of five PWDs each are benefiting from the Disability Grant. So far, about 35 individuals have received animals,” he said.
Orijabo urged beneficiaries to take good care of the animals so they can multiply and help pay school fees and meet other family needs. He also encouraged PWDs to venture into income-generating activities such as hairdressing, shoemaking, and poultry keeping.
Dick Nyomia, Chairperson of the Maracha Union of Persons with Disabilities, called on all PWDs in the district to join the union in order to access government and partner-supported programs.
He urged members to shun corruption, saying it could stifle the growth of the newly formed union, and thanked district leaders and partners for their continued training and financial support.
Nyomia further cautioned members, especially women and girls with disabilities, to be vigilant against gender-based violence due to their heightened vulnerability and to report any cases to the relevant authorities.
The event brought together district officials, local leaders, PWDs, and civil society organizations to raise awareness on ending violence against women and girls, including in digital spaces.