More mobility for project participants with disabilities

Thursday, June 27, 2024, was a special day for some people in the refugee settlement in Adjumani, Uganda: as part of the Horyzon project "Hope Beyond Borders", wheelchairs, crutches, rails and other walking aids were distributed to people with disabilities. These aids will enable them to move around more independently in the future. A physiotherapist accompanied the entire process: she assessed the needs of those affected, took care of procuring the aids, organized their distribution and ensured that everything was set up correctly on site and adapted to individual needs. Employees and participants in the project organized a small celebration to mark the handover, which was attended by representatives of the authorities and family members of the disabled people, among others. Members of the media were also invited; a local TV station even reported on the event.

People with disabilities face numerous challenges in the refugee settlements of Adjumani and Kiryandongo, where Horyzon is active. Due to their disabilities, they are often confronted with discrimination, which compounds their already difficult experience of displacement and the challenging living conditions. Everyday challenges in the settlements include sexual violence, ethnic conflicts and a food shortages. People with disabilities are particularly affected by the consequences of these issues. The provision of assistive devices in Adjumani marks an important step forward for the project, enabling individuals to participate more actively in social life. This gives them prospects for the future, allowing them to engage in community life in the refugee settlement and pursue personal development.