By Chipo Brenda
The Uganda National Association of the Deaf (UNAD) has commended the Electoral Commission (EC) for including nine deaf employees during the recent elections.
Speaking at Uganda Media Centre ahead of the International Week of the Deaf, Minister of State for Disability Affairs Hellen Asamo said the initiative highlights the rights of deaf people. She urged that these positions become permanent roles instead of temporary appointments.
Asamo called for a national sign language law to officially recognize Ugandan Sign Language (UGSL). The proposed law would establish a Uganda Sign Language Board to standardize, regulate, and promote UGSL, support training programs, increase funding, and ensure equal access to services for deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals.
UNAD has also urged the Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) to include deaf players in the national team, citing their skills and ability to compete. A commemorative match between deaf players and Mbarara University students will take place during the celebrations.
UNAD Executive Director Robert Nkwangu highlighted challenges faced by deaf individuals, including limited healthcare and social exclusion. “Some family members and friends sideline us because we cannot speak, and opportunities are often denied under the false belief that we are incapacitated,” he said.
According to the Uganda Bureau of Statistics (2025), about 1,979,613 Ugandans aged two and above have hearing difficulties, representing 4.7% of the population.
The week’s theme is: “Safer Communities Through Inclusion and Equal Opportunities.”
Meanwhile, the Uganda National Association of the Deaf has called on the Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) to consider including them in the national football team, noting that they have the talent and capacity to challenge opponents.
As part of the Deaf Week celebrations, a special football match will be held between the deaf community and Mbarara University students to showcase their abilities and raise awareness.
