Namayingo little people decry exclusion from government programs
He acknowledged the issue and assured attendees that steps were being taken to address their grievances.
Namayingo: Little people in Namayingo District have voiced their dissatisfaction over being excluded from key government programs such as Emyooga, GROW, and the Parish Development Model (PDM).
During an engagement meeting held at the Namayingo District Council Hall between little persons and Persons with Disabilities (PWD) leaders, participants expressed frustration over their continued isolation from government-funded initiatives meant to uplift communities, despite being Ugandan citizens.
Alice Nelima, one of the attendees, shared her disappointment, stating: “They say because we are short, I have never received any money, either for PDM, Emyooga, or the PWDs grant. We are not seen, and whenever we try to join some groups, we are left out. When we try to get the PDM money, they tell us that if we get it, we must return it with 10% interest.”
Bwire David, the District Councilor for PWDs, acknowledged the issue and assured attendees that steps were being taken to address their grievances.
“We have started engaging leaders to make it clear that little persons are part of the disabled community and, therefore, deserve to benefit from any disability funds and grants,” he said, calling for collective efforts to ensure inclusivity.
Margaret Makhoha, the Woman MP for Namayingo District, clarified that PWDs have special government grants with no interest rates, as per the Ministry of Gender, Labour, and Social Development.
She explained that while PDM and Emyooga grants are meant for the general population, PWDs have a reserved 10% allocation in every SACCO. She encouraged little persons to form groups and actively claim their rightful share of funds.
“If you face discrimination, report to the RDC or CAO for follow-up instead of suffering in silence. These programs are for everyone,” she urged.
Confirming the issue, Namayingo RDC Kwesiga Eva assured that the government is working on addressing the concerns under new management.
“We recognize the challenges, and steps are being taken to ensure little persons benefit from these programs moving forward,” she stated.
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