Kyaninga Inclusive Model School

Last month saw the whole Kyaninga Child Development Centre team - along with our Kyaninga Inclusive Model School (KIMS) students, families and other disability inclusion organisations - make a long, challenging but inspirational march from the Tooro Kingdom Palace up to KCDC’s Therapy & Rehabilitation Centre, all in the name of disability inclusion and awareness.

Armed with colourful, handmade signs and loud chanting voices, over 200 passionate activists - both young and old - were undoubtedly a sight to be seen! Following a marching band of HIV-positive youths, locals were stopped in their tracks as we marched through the city centre. 

Despite the school bus following behind ready to help tired children and those with mobility issues – the children from KIMS children remained determined to march with pride to reach their goal. From Jevannah-Ruby - with her brand-new walking frame - to Joseph with Downs Syndrome who had the loudest voice of all - they walked the whole 3.5 kilometres! The tenacity and emotion of all our children remained tireless throughout. And did we mention our wonderful askaris (security guards) who went above and beyond, carrying students with mobility issues for the whole duration of the march? But undoubtedly one of the most inspiration moments was when the march was joined by a large group of students from the Rwenzori Special Needs Foundation, a neighbouring organisation, who did not let their club feet, limb amputations or cerebral palsy dissuade them from passionately representing a cause dear to their hearts.

 After finally arriving at KCDC’s Therapy & Rehabilitation Centre, we celebrated with some enthusiastic dancing and a passionate speech from our CEO, Fiona Beckerlegge. By the end of the day, we were in agreement that this incredibly uplifting event would be repeated annually. 

The march also marked the first meeting of our newly established African Disability Collaboration. In alliance with six other disability organisations - all working ‘For an Inclusive Africa’ - this collaboration aims to create a network that facilitates resource sharing and training between the organisations, helping to improve and expand the services of all involved. In the future, we also hope to apply for joint grants, as well as produce intercountry research. 

We cannot wait until a repeat of the march next year. Until then, please make sure to follow our Instagram and Facebook pages below. This will ensure you don’t miss our soon-to-be-released video documenting all our highlights from the day!

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kyaningacdc/?hl=en-gb 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kyaningacdc