Absa Bank Uganda has committed Sh40 million to strengthen disability care in western Uganda through a partnership with Kyaninga Child Development Centre. The funding focuses on therapy services, mobility solutions and nutrition support for children living with disabilities across the Rwenzori region.
The initiative seeks to increase access to inclusive education and rehabilitation for more than 1,000 children each month. By addressing mobility and health needs together, the support aims to remove daily barriers that keep many children out of school and community life.
Leadership Emphasises Inclusive Growth
Speaking during the handover in Fort Portal, Absa Bank Uganda Managing Director David Wandera said the bank’s citizenship agenda places inclusion at its core. He noted that millions of children with disabilities still struggle to access education due to mobility challenges.
Wandera said the bank chose to invest in dignity and long-term opportunity. He added that practical mobility solutions can open classrooms, playgrounds and social spaces that remain unreachable for many children.
Locally Made Bamboo Wheelchairs Take Centre Stage
A major share of the donation, about Sh27 million, funded the production of specially designed bamboo wheelchairs built by Kyaninga Mobility. These wheelchairs respond to the realities of the Rwenzori landscape, where rough terrain often damages imported metal chairs.
The design uses about 75 percent locally sourced bamboo. This material offers a strong yet lightweight structure. The chairs withstand uneven ground while remaining easy for caregivers to push and transport.
Engineering for Rural Conditions
The bamboo wheelchairs meet ISO testing standards and weigh about 11.5 kilograms without wheels. With wheels attached, they weigh roughly 18 kilograms. Quick-release wheels and foldable parts allow easy storage and repair.
Local production also shortens repair times and reduces costs. Families avoid long waits for spare parts that often accompany imported equipment. The lower carbon footprint adds an environmental benefit to the social impact.
Education and Nutrition Receive Additional Support
The remaining portion of the funding went toward learning materials and specialised nutritious foods. These resources support children undergoing intensive physical therapy and rehabilitation.
Nutrition plays a key role in recovery and growth. KCDC uses tailored diets to support muscle development and energy needs during therapy sessions.
KCDC Welcomes the Partnership
Steven Leonard Williams, founder of Kyaninga Child Development Centre, praised the collaboration. He said the support validates local innovation and ensures children can attend school and participate in community activities.
Williams explained that mobility often determines whether a child remains isolated at home or engages fully with peers. He said the bamboo wheelchair program directly addresses that divide.
Boosting Local Enterprise and National Priorities
The wheelchair production aligns with the Buy Uganda, Build Uganda policy by supporting local skills and materials. The approach strengthens regional enterprise while delivering affordable assistive technology.
By choosing locally made solutions, the project keeps value within communities and builds technical capacity in disability-focused manufacturing.
Ongoing Commitment to Social Impact
Absa Bank Uganda continues to invest in health, education and social inclusion programs nationwide. The Rwenzori initiative reflects a broader strategy to pair financial strength with community-focused action that responds to real needs.
