Deep mud on a road in Yei town prevents a disabled resident from moving forward, illustrating the critical lack of inclusive infrastructure. (Photo credit: Dickson Duku)
(YEI RIVER COUNTY) – A disability rights organisation in Yei River County says poor roads, a lack of accessible public facilities and continued exclusion from social and community activities remain serious challenges for people with physical and visual disabilities.
The Disabled Action Group, known as DAG, said many of its members struggle to move around Yei, especially during the rainy season. According to the head of the group, Dickson Duku, the daily hardships faced by people with disabilities are often overlooked.
“There is no consideration for people with disabilities when it comes to road construction and the building of public spaces like churches, hospitals and other centres in the town,” Duku said. “Most of my members are finding it difficult to access roads, schools and hospital buildings in the county.”
Duku said poor road access is not the only challenge. He explained that many people with disabilities also struggle to access basic social services and attend public events.
“We do not have teachers for children in schools. We do not have translators for people with disabilities in churches, hospitals, public toilets, clinics, shops and offices,” he said. “Even during public events, meetings or community gatherings, there is no support, and this exclusion is bad for people who have visual and physical disabilities.”
He added that DAG continues to call on development partners and government authorities to include the needs of people with disabilities when designing policies and planning programmes.
“Currently we are involved in advancing our rights through the protection, food security and livelihood cluster meetings,” Duku said. “We also take part in the health and education meetings, the area reference group meetings chaired by the county commissioner, civil society meetings and other advocacy platforms like the media outlets in Yei town.”
Duku said improving accessibility will help people with disabilities participate fully in community life and will also support their safety, education and livelihoods. He urged local leaders and development groups to consider their needs in all future planning.
Issues Raised by DAG in Yei River County
| Issue Raised | Description | Impact on People with Disabilities |
|---|---|---|
| Poor road access | Roads not built with wheelchair or mobility support | Movement becomes difficult, especially in rainy season |
| Inaccessible public buildings | Churches, hospitals, schools and offices lack ramps and proper design | People cannot enter or use key services |
| Lack of sign language interpreters | No interpreters in churches, hospitals or public events | People with hearing impairments remain excluded |
| Limited disability friendly services | Few or no trained teachers and support staff | Children and adults with disabilities struggle to learn or receive care |
| Exclusion from community events | No support for participation in public meetings and gatherings | People feel isolated and left out of community life |
| Limited involvement in planning | Disability needs not considered by planners | Services and facilities remain inaccessible |
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