Ministry of Health Uganda has launched Uganda’s first National Rehabilitation and Assistive Technology Strategic Plan 2025–2030, in a major step aimed at strengthening rehabilitation services and improving access to assistive devices for persons with disabilities and other vulnerable groups across the country.

Uganda has today taken a significant step toward improving rehabilitation and assistive technology services following the launch of the country’s first National Rehabilitation and Assistive Technology Strategic Plan 2025–2030.

The strategy was officially unveiled during an event organized by the Ministry of Health as part of efforts to strengthen rehabilitation services and improve disability inclusion at all levels of healthcare.

Speaking as chief guest, Dr. Diana Atwine said the development of the strategy was informed by findings from the Systematic Assessment of Rehabilitation Situation, commonly known as STARS, which identified major gaps within Uganda’s rehabilitation and assistive technology sector.

Dr. Atwine emphasized that the Ministry remains committed to achieving Universal Health Coverage under the principle of “leaving no one behind.”

She noted that the strategy will help expand access to quality rehabilitation and assistive technology services across all levels of Uganda’s health system.

Meanwhile, Dr. Muwanga Moses, Assistant Commissioner for the Disability and Rehabilitation Division under the Department of Community Health, said the strategic plan is expected to address longstanding gaps, including poor service delivery and inadequate assistive devices in rehabilitation centers.

Dr. Muwanga further revealed that limited funding remains one of the major challenges affecting rehabilitation services in the country, adding that collaboration with stakeholders will be critical in mobilizing resources for effective implementation of the strategy.

Stakeholders from various rehabilitation centers who attended the launch pledged commitment toward immediate implementation of the strategy to improve rehabilitation services nationwide.

Persons with disabilities also welcomed the initiative, although some called for increased funding, improved accessibility, and wider distribution of assistive devices, especially in rural communities.

During the event, government through the Ministry of Health distributed wheelchairs to persons with disabilities as part of efforts to improve mobility, independence, and inclusion.

Officials also used the occasion to call upon Ugandans to end stigma and discrimination against persons with disabilities and instead promote equal opportunities and acceptance within communities.