In the pursuit of inclusive and equitable societies, economic empowerment plays a pivotal role in fostering independence and self-sufficiency among marginalized communities. For individuals with visual impairments, accessing economic opportunities can be particularly challenging due to barriers such as limited access to education, employment discrimination, and lack of accessible resources. Recognizing these challenges, the Uganda National Association for the Blind (UNAB) is dedicated to providing support towards the economic empowerment of blind persons, ensuring that they have the tools, resources, and opportunities they need to achieve financial independence and realize their full potential.

Access to Education and Skills Training

Education is the foundation for economic empowerment, yet blind individuals often face barriers in accessing quality education and vocational training opportunities. UNAB works tirelessly to address these barriers by advocating for inclusive education policies and providing scholarships, braille materials, and assistive technologies to blind students. Through skills training programs in areas such as computer literacy, entrepreneurship, and vocational skills, UNAB equips blind individuals with the knowledge and skills they need to pursue employment opportunities or start their own businesses, thereby enhancing their economic prospects and improving their livelihoods.

Promoting Inclusive Employment Practices

Employment discrimination is a significant barrier to economic empowerment for blind individuals, with many facing prejudice and stigma in the job market. UNAB advocates for inclusive employment practices and works closely with employers to promote the recruitment, retention, and advancement of blind employees. Through job placement services, skills assessments, and workplace accommodations, UNAB helps blind individuals secure meaningful employment opportunities that match their skills and interests, empowering them to contribute to the workforce and achieve financial stability.

Entrepreneurship Development

Entrepreneurship offers blind individuals the opportunity to create their own employment opportunities and generate income on their own terms. UNAB supports entrepreneurship development through training programs, business incubation support, and access to microfinance initiatives. By providing aspiring blind entrepreneurs with the knowledge, resources, and support they need to start and grow their businesses, UNAB fosters economic independence and self-reliance, enabling blind individuals to become active participants in the economy and agents of change within their communities.