By: Brenda Achen

A section of councilors in Zombo District has raised concern over the architectural designs of some public buildings, saying they do not adequately provide for the needs of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs).

The concern was raised during a recent district budget conference held at the district headquarters, where councilors called for greater consideration of accessibility when constructing and renovating public infrastructure.

Geoffrey Aliana, the Zombo District councillor representing Persons with Disabilities, said the absence of ramps at the district hall and other public buildings has made it difficult for children and persons with disabilities to access essential public services.

He noted that the lack of appropriate access facilities limits the movement and participation of people with mobility challenges in public activities, calling for urgent interventions to make government buildings more inclusive.

In Uganda, accessibility standards require public buildings and shared spaces to provide appropriate facilities, including ramps, to enable persons with disabilities and other people with mobility challenges to access services. Such facilities also benefit elderly persons, pregnant women and people with temporary mobility difficulties.

The concerns highlight the need for district authorities to prioritise inclusive infrastructure in their development plans to ensure that public facilities are accessible to all members of the community, regardless of their physical abilities.

In response, Joseph Otingcwinyu, the Assistant Engineering Officer, said assessments had already been conducted to identify buildings requiring accessibility improvements.

He added that funds had been allocated towards the installation of ramps, particularly on public structures, as part of efforts to address the accessibility challenges.