Disability is not inability: Meet Kirabo

Kirabo* was born with full sight but lost his vision at the age of three after developing trachoma. Despite multiple surgeries, his sight could not be restored, making attending school with a disability increasingly difficult.

After being placed in his grandmother’s care, he was enrolled in a sponsorship programme with IN Uganda in 2006. While his father believed he would never succeed, his mother continued to encourage him.

Confidence building as part of the Disability Inclusion Project at IN Uganda: inclusive Sports Festival, 2026

“I was placed under my grandmother’s care, but my condition worsened. In 2006, a social worker enrolled me in a sponsorship programme. In 2007 another surgery was made to restore my sight, but this only relieved the pain but could not restore my vision.”

With his mother’s support, together with counselling and sponsorship from IN Uganda, he enrolled at Salaama School for the Blind before continuing his education through secondary school and earning a government scholarship to Makerere University.

“During this period, the sponsorship office provided unwavering support, giving me hope when I felt completely hopeless.”

Kirabo pictured in the centre with dark glasses on, surrounded by his friends

Throughout university, Kirabo was given essential support, including study materials, a laptop, and assistive technology that enabled him to learn independently. He graduated in 2025 with a bachelor’s degree in social work and social administration and, while at Makerere, served in student leadership roles that helped establish stronger support and representation for students with disabilities.

Kirabo now works as a Disability Inclusion Facilitator with Heifer Project International, advocating for disability inclusion, challenging discrimination, and promoting equal opportunities for people with disabilities. He also supports his siblings’ education!

Children gather proudly for a photo that celebrates the Disability Inclusion Project at International Needs Uganda, 2026

“My journey demonstrates that disability is not inability. With support, encouragement, and opportunity, persons with disabilities can make lasting contributions to society. I am deeply grateful to my sponsor.”

His journey demonstrates the life-changing impact of encouragement, education and opportunity, and he remains deeply grateful to his sponsor, IN Uganda staff, and the confidence given to him by his mother.

*Name changed to protect identity

You too can transform someone’s life through our child sponsorship programme.

Written by Zoë Atherton, Communications Officer at International Needs UK

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