Recently, the debate surrounding disability and inclusion in Uganda has gained momentum following an article that described the marginalization of people with disabilities. Dr. Paolo M. Giambelli, Coordinator of the Uganda Program for the Italian Agency for Development Cooperation, responded with a letter to the editor, arguing that the claim that disabled children are “locked away, chained, or killed” is an inaccurate and marginal portrayal of Ugandan culture. Giambelli emphasizes that local communities, particularly the Lango, are much more inclusive and attentive to childhood.
The doctor expressed his discontent over the perpetuation of negative stereotypes about Africa in 2024, highlighting how such statements do not reflect the current and positive reality of Ugandan society’s approach to people with disabilities. His position is clear: promoting a realistic and respectful image of the Ugandan social context is essential for fully understanding the efforts made towards inclusion and support for the most vulnerable.
