By Ben Musanje
More than 130 persons with disabilities (PWDs) in the slums of Nansana experienced an Eid to remember after Fenna Tujjune stepped in with food, care, and a strong message of hope.
What is usually a difficult period turned into a day of joy, food, and togetherness as the organisation supported vulnerable Muslim families throughout Ramadan, making sure they did not go hungry during iftar—and crowning it all with a special Eid celebration.
Speaking at the event, Fenna Tujjune CEO Sarah Ramonah Olunda explained that the goal was to bring smiles to a community that often feels forgotten. She noted that the organisation had walked with the PWD community from the beginning to the end of Ramadan, managing to raise funds to feed them despite challenges. She added that there were hopes to expand such celebrations in the future to include other underserved areas like Katanga and Kalerwe.
Olunda also pointed out the harsh realities many PWDs face daily, stressing that access to basic services remains a big challenge. She explained that many struggle to reach schools, mosques, and hospitals, and during Ramadan, some could not even access food distributed at mosques—forcing the organisation to deliver it directly to their homes.
She urged PWDs to stop underestimating themselves and instead step forward to claim their place in society. She emphasized that many people may not understand their abilities unless they demonstrate them, encouraging them to push beyond limits and prove their potential.
Her message was echoed by Robert Sewagudde, who called on PWDs to embrace education and actively seek jobs. He stressed that disability should not be seen as inability, warning that stigma and lack of school fees continue to hold many back. He also challenged institutions and employers to open up opportunities for persons with disabilities.
Local leader Faridah Namukwaya praised the organisation for standing with the community throughout Ramadan and expressed hope that the support would continue, especially for children still in need.
For beneficiaries, the impact was deeply personal. One woman shared that without the support, she had no idea how her family would celebrate Eid, adding that she had lost hope of even getting a meal—but was grateful that her children were able to eat and celebrate with dignity.
Beyond food, Fenna Tujjune is also pushing long-term solutions. The organisation is supporting mothers with disabilities to make hotboxes for safer cooking, while men are being trained to assemble clean energy cookers for schools—creating income and independence.
Olunda said the vision was to build a generation of self-reliant persons with disabilities who can afford their needs without depending on handouts, adding that the organisation is now focused on action, not just advocacy.
What started as a simple act of kindness turned into something bigger—a powerful reminder that with support, inclusion, and opportunity, even the most overlooked communities can celebrate, thrive, and live with dignity. (For comments on this story, get back to us on 0705579994 [WhatsApp line], 0779411734 & 041 4674611 or email us at mulengeranews@gmail.com).
