Africa-Press – Uganda. Absa Bank Uganda has made a Shs 40 million donation to the Kyaninga Child Development Centre (KCDC) to support critical therapeutic services, nutrition, and mobility for children living with disabilities in the Rwenzori region.
The contribution aims to strengthen KCDC’s capacity to provide specialized therapy and inclusive education to more than 1,000 children every month by addressing their holistic needs. This initiative aligns with the bank’s citizenship agenda, which seeks to be a force for good by addressing social challenges and supporting a just and inclusive future for all.
Speaking at the handover ceremony, David Wandera, Managing Director of Absa Bank Uganda, emphasized the bank’s commitment to inclusive growth.
“An estimated 2.5 million children living with disabilities in Uganda remain excluded from school due to mobility challenges. As Absa, we are proud to support the Kyaninga bamboo wheelchair project with this humble investment in the dignity and educational future of these children.”
A significant portion of the donation—Shs 27 million—was allocated to the purchase of a fleet of innovative, specially designed bamboo wheelchairs. These are produced locally by Kyaninga Mobility and represent a major breakthrough in assistive technology for the rugged terrain of the Rwenzori region.
Unlike standard metallic wheelchairs, which are often difficult to repair and prone to damage on rough landscapes, the bamboo wheelchairs are engineered using 75% locally sourced bamboo. This gives them a high strength-to-weight ratio, making them exceptionally durable while remaining light enough for easy transport.
The remaining balance of the donation supported essential educational resources and specialized nutritious foods, which are critical for children undergoing intensive physical therapy and rehabilitation.
Steven Leonard Williams, Founder of Kyaninga Child Development Centre, welcomed the partnership, saying:
“We are grateful to Absa Uganda for recognizing the value of our locally made, eco-friendly wheelchairs. This support ensures that children with disabilities are no longer stranded at home but can actively participate in school and community life.”
The bamboo wheelchairs are tested to ISO standards, weigh only 11.5 kg (18 kg with wheels), and feature quick-release wheels and foldable components. Their production supports local enterprise under the Buy Uganda, Build Uganda initiative while offering affordable mobility solutions with a lower carbon footprint and higher resilience.
