CONTRIBUTIONS OF NGOS IN ADVOCACY FOR THE RIGHTS OF PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES IN ADYEL DIVISION LIRA

DISTRICT

ABSTRACT

The purpose of this study was to investigate the contribution of NGOS towards advocacy for rights of PWDs.

The study objectives were to; examine the roles of NGOS towards advocating for rights of PWDs, identify the problems faced by the NGOS and their solutions and suggest recommendations that can be proposed for the discussion of disability inclusion.

The stratified method of sampling was selected and this was in two stages where by the community as a whole and sample individuals were selected randomly.

In the study a qualitative approach was used as the study design.                                                       The total numbers of participants were 16 and these included PWDs, NGOS and the local leaders.  Data was collected from the respondents by semi structured interview guide and observation check lists as the instruments.   Data was analyzed in simple tables and description was done using percentages from which conclusions were drawn.

The major findings of the study was to provide a social model of disability and that NGOS could enhance capacity development of the staff involved in the international cooperation and emergency responses can be invested in.

The researcher recommended; sensitization of the community also encouraged the formation of NGOS and  CBOs.

CHAPTER ONE

1.1. Introduction

This chapter presents the background of the study on contribution of NGOS towards the advocacy of rights of PWDs. It also presents statement of the problem, purpose of the study, significance, research questions and scope of the study.

1.2. Background

Disability refers to physical, mental, cognitive, or developmental condition that impairs, interferes with, or limits a person’s ability to engage in certain tasks or actions or participate in typical daily activities and interactions (Merrian Webster 1828)

The main categories of disability in Uganda include: the blind, the visually impaired, the deaf, the hard of hearing, the physically disabled, persons with epilepsy, the mentally ill, the intellectually disabled, persons with albinism and the deaf/blind. The categories have been increasing in number as empowerment and service develop.

According to the national housing population census carried out in 2002 indicate that people with disability are 4.2% of the population, in 2005 Uganda the national household carried out a survey and found 7% of the population to be disabled and the Uganda demographic health survey in 2006 found out that 18% of the people to be disabled. The demographic health survey 2006 which defined disability by the difficulty to perform and whose enumerators were better trained found a prevalence of 18%, despite the variance, it’s an important developmental issue that affects about 2,092,234 PWDs and their immediate family.

And as per the 2014 national housing and population census states that 12.5% of persons had at least one form of disability.

According to the national union of disabled persons of Uganda (NUDIPU) before the formation of NUDIPU in November 1987, persons with disability (PWDs) in Uganda were not involved in the planning and implementation of programs that were meant to benefit them.

The National Union of Disabled Persons of Uganda (NUDIPO) is an umbrella DPO, composed of several single impairment organizations, advocating inclusion of PWDs. They work closely together with the NGO Action on Disability and Development (ADD), which specializes in capacity building for  DPOs. In response to the CRPD in their country, they wanted to change their role from advocates of equal rights to facilitators of disability mainstreaming. A number of disability specific NGOS and  DPOs focuses on meeting the special needs of PWDs. In the past, disability specific NGOS tried to meet these needs by providing care in special institutions, social charity, and adapted norms for PWDs.  DPOs focused on the empowerment of PWDs and the removal of barrier to their participation, speaking out about their specific needs while Disability-specific NGOS are exposed in the implementation of programs for PWDs. They can give practical advice to other development organizations regarding the needs and abilities of PWDs in inclusive development. As role models in the provision of services for PWDs, they can stimulate others to make their programs accessible (Lang 2009).

The United Nations CRPD (2006), reflects this process of social transformation. It clearly and unconditionally spells out that PWDs have equal rights to full and effective enjoyment of all the human rights. It re-affirms the universality, indivisibility, interdependence and the interrelatedness of all the human rights and fundamental freedoms and the need for persons with disabilities to be guaranteed their full enjoyment without discrimination. The rights-based approach recognizes PWDs as ‘subjects’ with rights, who have the agency to claim these rights and make meaningful decisions as active members of the society  (Mwenda el tal, 2009).

Before the adoption of the CRPD, Adults with disability were not explicitly included in the human rights treaties. Only children were protected in the convention on the rights if the child, in article 2 and 23, focusing on non-discrimination and the right to special care and support. To claim their rights, disabled individuals could invoke universal rights but in practice, this did not offer sufficient protection. Under the CRPD, all stake holders involved in development cooperation have a legal responsibility to consult and involve PWDs in their activities. To support the implementation of the responsibilities, disability-specific NGOS and  DPOs can play an important role in supporting mainstream NGOS; governments; businesses and other stake holders with less experience in working with disabled persons. However, recent insights have led to the advice for disability-specific NGOS and DPOs to not only respond to the special needs and protection of PWDs, but to also increase the possibilities for them to fully enjoy their human rights. (UN, 2006)

1.3. Problem statement

The government has taken a number of steps towards tackling the many barriers to integration faced by people with disabilities in Uganda. For example, the national strategy for integration of people with disabilities in Uganda was adopted in 2002 for advocacy, access to information, attitudes and attitude change to involve disabled people and their families in the community programs (WHO, 2004).

Despite the effort by the Government and Non-Government Organizations, People with Disabilities are often regarded as objects of pity which effectively sets them apart or excludes them from the community and have not fully participated in community programs due to discrimination and is it from this background that the study is interested in finding out the contribution of NGOS in the advocacy for the rights of the people with disabilities.

1.4. Purpose of the study

To investigate the contributions of NGOS in the advocacy for rights of the people with disabilities.

1.4.1. The objectives of the study

The objectives of the study were as follows;

1. To examine the role of NGOS towards advocating rights of the disabled people.
2. To identify the problems faced by the NGOS and their solutions.

• To suggest recommendations that can be proposed for the discussion of disability inclusion.

1.5. Research questions;

The study was guided by the following research questions;

1. What are the roles of NGOS towards advocating rights of the disabled people?
2. What are the problems faced by the NGOS in the advocacy of rights of persons with disability?

• What are the solutions that can be proposed for the discussion of disability inclusion?

1.6. Scope of the study

The study was taken from Adyel Division in Lira District from May to June 2017. It was focused on the contributions of NGOS in the advocacy of rights of persons with disability; the challenges faced as well the solutions to combat them.

1.6. Significance of the study

The study provided relevant information to NGOS. This enabled some of the NGOS to reveal their loopholes in advocating rights of the disabled people.

The study found out problems hindering NGOS from advocating effectively the rights of the people with disabilities.

This study involved the different stakeholders that were known as policy makers and implementers, participants and the researcher. These include the government, media, NGOS, lecturers and even the students.

CHAPTER TWO

LITERATURE REVIEW

2.0. Introduction

The chapter comprises of information from various sources like textbooks, reports, dissertations, magazines and other literatures from the broaden studies regarding the role of NGOS in the advocacy of rights of persons with disability ,problems faced by the NGOS solutions and the possible recommendations to combat the challenges faced.

2.1. Role of NGOS towards advocating human rights of disabled people

Clark (1991) highlights the role that the voluntary sector plays in the mainstream development, as follows; Encouraging official aid and the government ministries to adopt successful approaches to development, educating and sensitizing the public, as to their rights and entitlements, attuning official programs to the public needs through acting as a conduit for public opinion and local experience, influencing local development policies of national and international institutions, provider of alternative services and development projects.

Local NGOS have endeavored to fill up gaps left by governments in promoting participation of the identified stakeholders; to redress issues of access to the community based rehabilitation services for people with disabilities, through various strategies that may include: Resource mobilization, Community mobilization and sensitization, Community education and training, Attitude and behavior change, Capacity building, Mechanisms for social economic empowerment, Research and information dissemination, Networking, lobbying and advocating(WHO 2004).

Experience shows that NGOS have made a great contribution in poverty alleviation, redressing gender balance, combating environmental degradation and involving the poor and PWDs, in participatory development (Save The Children Fund, 1997). NGOS have also developed a reputation for their ability to elicit participation from the communities they serve (Carroll, 1992).

In line with CRPD, the DPOs and NGOS aimed at capacity building of mainstream development organization to include PWDs. Through the adoption of existing training activities and the development of new ones, the organization supported this capacity building process. The NGOS like NUDIPU in Uganda maintained the focus on delivery of inclusive services for PWD. However, they paid specific attention to sharing their experiences with other stake holders. (Light for the World, 2010).

NGOS have aimed at promoting the social model of disability which help in overcoming barriers of exclusion, fear, ignorance and prejudice that contribute to discriminatory practices including for example an inferior complex and sense of isolation on the part of PWDs and exclusionary attitudes on the part of the general public. However thanks to the advocacy of NGOS and also the new governmental initiatives, these barriers are therefore addresses. (Advocacy, 2006).

Children Defense Fund (CDF); is a child advocacy organization that works to ensure a level playing field for all children. CDF champions policies and programs that lift children out of poverty, protect them from abuse and neglect and ensure their right to equal care and education. (www.childrensfund.org 12^th july.2006)

Human Rights Action Center is anon profit organization. The center works on issues of the UDHR and uses the arts and technologies to innovate, create and develop new strategies to stop human rights abuses against persons with disability. They also support growing human rights groups all over the world that advocate for PWDs. (Healey, 2013).

In some cases, NGOS become spoke persons or ombudsmen for the PWDs and attempt to influence government policies and programs on their behalf. This may be done through a variety of means ranging from demonstration and pilot projects to participation in public forums and plans, to publishing research results and case studies of the PWDs. Thus NGOS play roles from advocates for the PWDs to implementers of government programs and advisors, from sponsors of pilot projects to mediators. (Williams, 1991).

The Human Rights watch is dedicated to protecting the rights of the people around the world. They investigate and expose human rights violators, hold abusers accountable, and challenge governments and those who hold power to end abusive practices and respect international human rights law in favor of the PWDs which have attained respect of their rights. (www.hrw.org).

2.2. Problems faced by NGOS

The major problem noted in CBR programs implemented in Uganda at the moment, was lack of cohesion. As mentioned already, local NGOS seemed to duplicate CBR programme activities rather than filling in important gaps left by others in a complimentary way. To some extent, local NGOS failed to realize and articulate issues affecting disabled persons. History showed that these organizations were not effective in addressing needs of their clientele in many respects such as health, income and society security, education, legal rights and social participation. These issues are poorly coordinated by the local NGOS (Jairos Jiri Association, 1996).

Leadership qualities of the leaders in NGOS determine the quality and condition of the services rendered by any organization. Especially dedicated leadership, “Leadership for the sake of Leadership” is a most important governing factor in this regard. In the post independence era, unfortunately, the NGOS faced the crisis of leadership as the leaders who pioneered voluntary action and worked for it with spirit of devotion and dedication choose to enter politics to find berths in legislature and parliament thus creating a vacuum for dedication leadership in NGOS (Tauris L.B,London, 1996).

Due to lack of funds, NGOS are expressing difficulty in funding sufficient appropriate and continuous funding for the work. They find accessing donors as challenging as dealing with their funding conditions. They perceive there to be certain cartels of individuals and NGOS that control access to donor funds. They have limited resource mobilization skills and are often not looking for funds that are available locally, preferring to wait for international donors to match them. There is a high dependency of donors and attendance to shift interventions to match donor’s priorities. There is a lack of financial, project and organizational sustainability (Jairos Jiri Association, 1996).

Imran Soomro (2015) highlights poor governance as it was recognized within the sector as a whole, within the NGO council and within individual NGOS. Knowledge of good governance varied widely, with some regions indicating very little understanding of why NGOS are required to have boards or what their roles and functions should be. Many other participants explained that it is difficult to achieve good governance with founders who wished to own their NGOS for their own purposes. Participants with better understanding of good governance appreciated that this is fundamental to NGO accountability and transparency. Many NGOS mismanage their resources, quite often with the involvement and encouragement of their boards that eat their NGO resources making it difficult to find board members since it can be difficult if you are not willing to pay them or provide allowances.

Poor networking was identified as a major challenge. It is the cause of duplication of efforts, conflicting strategies at community levels, a lack of learning from experience and an inability of NGOS to address local structural causes of poverty, deprivation and under development. Negative competition for effectiveness of NGO activities at community level, as a result there is a great deal of suspicion among NGOS, secrecy and lack of transparency. Many NGOS, large and small, intervene at community level without any community mapping and implementation of projects without due regards to ongoing community initiatives, NGO politics, and one fighting another, one with resources but no community presence and another with presence but no resources (Jeff Goins).

NGOS also recognize that there is very poor communication within the sector. The majority of NGOS have little or no access to reliable email and internet connection; they receive almost no literature of development issues and are generally out of touch with issues of global, regional and national importance. Their lack of understanding of the differences between the board and council is just one example of the knowledge gaps that exist as Panigrahi acknowledged.

NGOS also recognize that many of them have limited technical and organizational capacity. Few NGOS are able or willing to pay for such capacity building. Weak capacity was identified in fundraising, governance, technical areas of development, leadership and management. Some NGOS felt that the existence of quality standards would assist them to develop the required capacities. The speed of technology changes is also a challenge particularly in areas of IT capacity (Kaplan, 1999).

2.3. Recommendations that can be proposed for the discussion of disability inclusion.

In order to realize fully the rights of PWDs in development, systematic effort and commitments need to be made, together with appropriate resource allocation. The international community could consider the following recommendations;

Removal of obstacles and constraints in the international development so that PWDs can be included in international development and those new barriers are not created. A number of barriers limit or exclude the enjoyment of the rights of PWDs and these include policies and standards, attitudes, services, lack of accessibility and participation in decision making, inadequate data and statistics. This is in conformity with the World Program of Action Concerning Disabled Persons and the CRPD, which is a human rights instrument and a development tool, and in the effective and inclusive pursuit of the achievement of the MDGs. In addition, in order to maximize the removal of barriers for PWDs, the “twin-track” approach could be strengthened , programs and services could also be designed accessibly and inclusively so PWDs can participate equally with others in education, employment, health, social protection and all other services.

Article 23 of the CRPD states that “the child’s active participation in the community” must be promoted, enabled and facilitated. To enable meaningful and active participation of different actors with disabilities, capacity development measures need to be planned and supported.  DPOs should be involved in decision making processes and in all stages of programming, and non-discrimination of PWDs should be ensured at all times. The rights of the children with disability should be ensured at all times. The right of children with disability must be heard in all matters concerning them and to have their views given due weight is stated which echoes the language of Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC).

Resources could be allocated to the collection and analysis of reliable and disaggregated data by sex and disability in national statistical system in order to support the design and the monitoring of better programs, policies and emergency responses and to promote the awareness of PWDs as a heterogeneous and internally differentiated group. Strengthening the statistical capacity can help to produce reliable disaggregated data on PWDs as (article 31) of the CRPD represented a stand-alone provision on data and statistics because its paramount importance is also emphasized on the operative paragraph 3 of General Assembly resolution.

Agenda perspective can be included in the disability work. The right to equality is essential, as well as being a means to achieving inclusive development. The empowerment of all women, the full enjoyment of their human rights and the eradication of poverty are essential to development efforts, including the achievement of the MDGs. Disparities in access experienced by women with disability and their increased exposure to situations of vulnerability were emphasized in the annual ministerial reviews of the Economic Social Council for 2010 and 2011. The establishment of the United Nations Entity for Gender Equality and the Empowerment of Women (UN Women) can play a crucial role in operationalizing the right of women with disabilities.

Capacity development of the staff involved in the international cooperation and emergency response can be invested in. Awareness-raising and capacity-building related to the rights of PWDs (CRPD, article 4.1.i) and an understanding of the biosocial model of disability can be developed among the different actors and stakeholders working in development communities and emergency situations.

Adaptation of a national disability strategy or action plan can provide the long term vision for the implementation of the CRPD and the fulfillment of the rights of PWDs. Moreover, disability can be part of all the strategies for the development and action plans. (General Assembly resolution, operative paragraph 5) which PWDs need to monitor and participate actively in (CRPD, article 33.3). The United Nations system can contribute greatly to the implementation of the CRPD through actions such as undertaking specific and targeted efforts to mainstream disability internal documents, work plans, for example, the 2012 Quadrennial Comprehensive Policy Review (QCPR) of the general assembly.

Ensuring of disability inclusive responses in situations of risk and humanitarian emergences. The biosocial or bio-psychosocial model adopted by the CRPD in it preamble, whereby disability is an interaction between a physical condition and the social environment can be used in the design and implementation of emergency responses and in other situations of risk, including armed conflict. PWDs, including children have an equal right to be included in emergency preparedness and to benefit from full access to relief services (article 11).

Inamdar, (1987) suggested that young graduates from universities, colleges and schools has  conduct the public seminars, meetings, symposiums and use the local media to advertise the importance of voluntarism, success stories of NGOS and encourage people to participate in voluntarism, this will help them to gain experience in different aspects governing NGOS.

The NGOS should use the latest technologies like internet, websites, for rising of their funds, to have mutual associations, to advertise their products and for the selection of efficient personals to participate in the community (Suresh, 1990).

NGOS have to make strategic choices between confrontational, complementary or collaborative strategic relationship with government. The process of making these strategic choices gives rise to internal tensions concerning expenditure priorities, the conflicting demands of clients and donors, which result in disagreements over an appropriate balance between quality services and meeting fundraising targets. The result can be a split within the organization, which can be resolved by the voluntary organization acting as a mediator or bridge between donor and client (Norrell, 2006).

To develop the organization, individuals have to be able to contribute in the decision making process and they need to learn. All participants need to understand their responsibility to represent their particular stakeholders and to support the implementation activities (Inglis and Minahan, 2006).

NGOS could form voluntary national professional associations, like associations of engineers, accountants, or insurance companies aimed at promoting the sector, partly through self policing of standards. The solution list is likely to include several of issues; employment, recruitment and staff development policies and practices. (Moore and Stewart, 1998).

REC, (1997) suggested that  they should focus on fostering the participation of all sectors of society in environmental decision-making and in supporting regional cooperation through offering  the following services; information exchange, and publications, with an emphasis on facilitating access to information, training and capacity building among others.

Mukasa, (2006) suggested that there should be balancing of the needs of the different stakeholders who each feel they have an equal right to the decision-making process that has created a number of management problems for these organizations. These problems revealed the valves that NGOS espouse and what actually happens in practices.

CHAPTER THREE

METHODOLOGY

3.0. Introduction

This indicates the design methods and techniques that were used in collecting and analyzing of data towards achievement of the stated objectives. These included research design, design concepts, source of data, collection and procedure of data collection, data quality control, data processing and analysis.

3.1. Research design

A descriptive design was used to study the contribution of NGOS in advocating for the rights of the people with disabilities in the Adyel Division Lira District. Under this research survey design, the researcher used both the quantitative and qualitative researcher designs in acquiring information of the study. This design was important as it was concerned with findings so as to establish the distribution of variables in the study population.

3.2 .Area of Study

The study was conducted in Adyel Division Lira District only covering two villages.

3.3. Study Population

In the study, the researcher considered individual disability and samples which included community members and students. A sample of 30 respondents was selected within the community, of which were the community members and were students.

3.4. Sample

A sample size of thirty was undertaken using purposive strategy, snowball strategy.

3.5 Sample Procedures/Strategies

One out of the three parishes in the division was surveyed. And that’s junior quarters. This parish was selected using purposive sampling strategy .this is a convenient study unit for the research because it is accessible and it has registered the highest number of PWDs and NGOS in the advocacy of rights of persons with disability. Purposive sampling is a non-probability sampling method and it occurs when elements selected for the sample are chosen by the judgment of the researcher. Researchers often believe that they can obtain a representative sample by using a sound judgment, which will result in saving time and money.

Purposive sampling was one of the most cost-effective and time-effective sampling methods available

Purposive sampling was the only appropriate method available since there were only limited numbers of primary data sources who could contribute to the study

This sampling technique was effective in exploring anthropological situations where the discovery of meaning can benefit from an intuitive approach

Snowball Sampling. The chain referral process allows the researcher to reach populations that are difficult to sample when using other sampling methods.

The process was cheap, simple and cost-efficient.

This sampling technique needed little planning and fewer workforce compared to other sampling techniques.

Data was collected from community leaders (representative of PWDs), target beneficiaries who gave the researcher the contributions of NGOS in the advocacy of rights of PWDs. At the community levels, data was collected from the selected PWDs, in focus groups, selected individual households, and the NGOS in the community.

Sample selection

For the selection of the sample, a two stage stratified   sampling selection was adopted .in the first stage the community was selected and the second stage three parts of the community were sampled and a simple random technique was adopted for the selection of at least thirty sample individuals.

3.6. Instruments of data collections.

3.6.1 Interviews

An in-depth interview guide for key informants was designed to capture data from people who are to be considered knowledgeable about the research topic. Interview guides allow the researcher to be flexible to obtain in depth information from the key informants such has the community leaders, PWDs, parents of PWDs and NGOS

3.6.2 Observation

Observation guides was used to capture all observable aspects relevant to the study in the contributions of PWDs in advocacy of PWDs such as participation. Transect walks and observation were used to analyze the key disability concerns like participation, development and how favorable are the community facilities that exist and how they support PWDs.

3.6.3 Questionnaires

The researcher designed questionnaires that were distributed to the target group such as the NGOS, parents of persons with disability, community leaders in order to attain relevant information hence assessing the contributions of NGOS in advocacy of rights of persons with disability.

3.6.4 Documentary sources

The researcher used secondary sources of data like magazines, journals, newspapers and presentations concerning the subject matter of the study. These sources were consulted at a length to extract efficient and required information to answer research questions.

3.6.5 Community discussions

The researcher organized community discussions .In this way the researcher was able to attain the challenges and the success of NGOS in the advocacy of rights of persons with disability.

3.7. Procedures of Data collection

The study used self-administered open and closed questionnaires to gather information from selected respondents. This method is convenient because it provided respondents with ample time to think and respond to the questions.

3.8. Data analysis and processing

The researcher used the descriptive technique which involved the use of frequency distributions, graphs and means that are meant to display the frequencies for the study variables like age, sex groups among others. More data analysis was done using Ms Excel.

3.9 Data presentation

The researcher used qualitative and quantitative data techniques to analyze the findings into more meaningful information to comprehend the data collected from the field to bring out the holistic picture of the contributions of NGOS in advocacy for the rights of persons with disabilities in Adyel Division, Lira District.

3.10 Limitation of the study

Peoples’ expectations tend to be so high. Some respondents expected immediate solutions to their problems after being interviewed while others expected money .The researcher had to continuously explain to the community that the purpose of the study was purely academic whose findings could give a guide to the development of subsequent development programs for the area.

Some respondents tended not to be available in their homes at the time of the interviews due to their various schedules. This required extra time to be used and hence prolonging the period for data collection .however this will require a researcher to be persistent in order to access accurate and relevant data.

The study was carried out in one sub-county (Adyel Division) the findings were not to be generalized to the whole program in the district, region or even country.

3.11 Summary of the Research Methodology

A descriptive design was used to study the contribution of NGOS in advocating for the rights of the people with disabilities in the Adyel Division Lira District. This design adopted techniques that involved the use of frequency distributions, graphs and means that are meant to display the frequencies for the study variables like age, sex groups among others. More data analysis was done using Ms Excel.

The research considered individual disability and selected a sample of 30 respondents which included community members and students. A two stage stratified   sampling selection was adopted where in the first stage the community was selected and the second stage three parts of the community were sampled. Then simple random technique was adopted for the selection of at least sixteen sample individuals. However out of the three parishes in the division was to be surveyed, the study used purposive sampling strategy to select one parish that was accessible and registered the highest number of PWDs and NGOS in the advocacy of rights of persons with disability.

An in-depth interview guide for key informants was designed to capture data from people who did not know how to read or/and write and were considered knowledgeable about the research topic and on the other hand questionnaires were distributed to the target group such as the NGOS, parents of persons with disability, community leaders in order to attain relevant information hence assessing the contributions of NGOS in advocacy of rights of persons with disability.

Some respondents when contacted expected immediate solutions to their problems while others expected money as such the research study was rigorous and the findings were not generalized to the whole program in the district, region or even country.

CHAPTER FOUR

PRESENTATION AND ANALYSIS OF FINDINGS

4:0. Introduction

The main aim of this study was to investigate the contribution of NGOS towards advocacy of rights of PWDs.

This chapter presents the findings and their analysis. It was organized according to the study objectives as shown below;

SECTION A: Demographic Data

The total number of respondents who participated in the study were 30, including PWDs, NGOS instructors and the local leaders whose characteristics are presented in the table below;

Figure 4:1: Shows gender characteristics of the respondents

Source: Primary data

Figure 4:1: shows the gender characteristics of the respondents.                                                                  50% were female and 50% male.

Table 4:1: Shows the age composition

Table 4:2 above shows the age composition of the respondents.                                                          (50%) of the above respondents were between the age of 26-30 years and above.  This had the highest percentage because it involved the NGO parents and the local leaders because they were the people who had more information about the PWDs and the state of the NGOS in the advocacy of rights of persons with disability Uganda.

Figure 4:2: Shows the type of impairment of the PWDs

Source: primary data

From the figure above, 50% of the respondents were physically impaired, 28.5% of them had a hearing impairment and 21.4% had a visual impairment.

The highest percentage of participants had physical impairment because they were the highest number of respondents who were available during the time data was collected.

SECTION B: Data Analysis

Objective (1): The role of NGOS in the advocacy of rights of PWDs.

Table 4:2: Shows the respondents` views on the roles of NGOS in the advocacy of rights of PWDs.

Source: Primary data

Table 4:2; above shows the100% role of NGOS in the advocacy of rights of PWDs.

From the above table, 23.3% of the respondents said that  through promoting social model of disability it will helps in overcoming barriers of exclusion, fear, ignorance and prejudice is the major role of played by the NGOS in advocating for rights of PWDs

Implying that this will require NGOS to carry out massive sensation of the public in order to create awareness .this will enable the NGOS overcome exclusion among the PWDs and the community members, counseling and guidance would also enable the PWDs gain confidence and self esteem hence promoting the advocacy of rights of PWDs.

In addition, 23.3% of the respondents also argued that protecting children from abuse and neglect and ensuring their right of equal care and education is another role of NGOS. this is mainly because children with disability have greatly been neglected in the spheres of development. Note should be taken that currently there are very few disability schools in Uganda and in lira district adyel divisions there is only one disability school. This implies that NGOS need to boosted on protecting children with disability from abuse and neglect hence ensuring their rights of equal care and education is facilitated hence a contribution of NGOS in the advocacy of rights of persons with disability.

Furthermore, 20% of the respondents pointed out that capacity building of mainstream development organisation to include PWDs are another role of the NGOS in advocacy of rights of PWDs. Generally PWDs have been neglected in the mainstream .implying that when NGOS advocate for the PWDs then this will enable them be included in the mainstream hence effective representation.

In the same way, 33.3% of the respondents said that poverty alleviation, redressing gender balance, combating environmental degradation and involving the poor and PWDs is also a role of NGOS. Through lobbying for slots and opportunities for PWDs, this will eradicate poverty and promote equality hence development.

Objective (2): The problems faced by the NGOS in advocacy of rights of PWDs

Table 4:3: Shows the respondents` view on the problems faced by NGOS towards advocating for rights of PWDs

Source: Primary Data

Table 4:3; above shows the problems faced by NGOS in advocating for rights of PWDs.

From the table above, 31.3% of the respondents said that there is lack of funds, limited resource mobilization skills, high dependency and lack of financial, project and organizational sustainability among NGOS. They are facing a challenge of inadequate funds to run the various projects that support the advocacy of PWDs. However through effective resource mobilization, auctioning, fundraising activities, resources can be mobilized hence availability of resources thus unarming financial challenges

In addition, 25% of the respondents also pointed out that weak capacity identified in fundraising, capacity building, technical areas of development, leadership and management affects NGOS. Due to weak fundraising skills there has been shortage of funds to run the different projects that facilitated advocacy of rights of persons with disability. Capacity building and development of technical area if key to development since they tend to render the necessary advice and even develop  programmes and projects hence leading to development.

Similarly, 25% of the respondents go ahead to mention the lack of cohesion and poor coordination of issues such as health, education and social participation among PWDs and the NGOS. Poor coordination and lack of cohesion among PWDs has limited effective flow of information which tend to also delay or eventually fail social service delivery

Furthermore 18.7% of the respondents also go ahead to mention that poor governance as it was recognized within the sector as a whole. In terms of high corruption, lack of accountability, lack of representation of PWDs has also affected the NGOs advocacy of rights of persons with disability.

Objective (3): Recommendations that can be proposed for the discussion of disability inclusion

Table 4:4: Shows the recommendations that can be proposed for the discussion of disability inclusion

Source: Primary data

Table 4:4 above shows the recommendations that can be proposed for the discussion of disability inclusion among PWDs.

From the table above, 30% of the respondents pointed out that capacity development of all staff involved in the international cooperation and emergency response can be invested in for the NGOs to be more vibrant, capacity building id very vital as it will enable the staff member again more skills and also enable them learn different spheres of governance hence effective role of NGOs in the advocacy of rights of persons with disability.

In addition, 13.3% of the respondents said that agenda perspective can be included in the disability work such as empowerment of all women. When women are empowered it empowered in included in the daily running and advocacy of persons with disability it will ensure women equality. Men and women will both be equal hence leading to effective of rights of PWDs

Similarly, 16.6% of the respondents pointed out that removal of obstacles and constraints in the international development so that PWDs can be included and new barriers are not created.

In the same way, 6.2% of the respondents said that resources could be allocated to the collection and analysis of reliable and disaggregated data alongside the child’s active participation in the community must be promoted, enabled and facilitated. Inadequate funds and resources in terms of man power have also affected the process. However with a boost in the funding and resources as well as inclusion of effective child participation in the process of data collection will ease the work of NGOs.

CHAPTER FIVE

DISCUSSIONS, CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

5.0. Introduction

The main purpose of the study was to find out the contribution of NGOS in advocacy for the rights of PWDs in Kyambogo University.   The findings of the study are presented in chapter four above.  In this chapter therefore the researcher presents the discussion, conclusions and recommendations.

5.1. Conclusion

In view of the findings above, it is hereby concluded that;

The major role played by NGOS in advocating for rights of PWDs was promoting the social model of disability aimed at helping to overcome barriers of exclusion, fear, ignorance and prejudice among PWDs.

Lack of funds and limited resource mobilization skills was the major challenge faced by the NGOS in advocating for rights of PWDs.

The major recommendation that was proposed was capacity building of the staff involved in the international cooperation and emergency response could be invested in awareness-raising and capacity building related to rights of PWDs

The role of NGOs in advocating for the rights of PWDs

Table 4:4 in chapter four reveals that NGOs have aimed at the promotion of the social model of disability which help in overcoming barriers of exclusion, fear, ignorance and prejudice that contribute to discriminatory practices.

This is in line with Advocacy (2006), whereby great thanks are given to the NGOs and the governmental initiatives as these barriers are addressed.  The researcher observed that this situation in the area of study whereby there were discriminatory practices for example an inferior complex and sense of isolation of PWDs and exclusionary attitudes is on the part of the general public.

In addition, table 4:4 in chapter four also shows that protecting children from abuse and neglect as another role of NGOs in advocacy of rights of PWDs.  This is in line with CDF (www.childrensfund.org); which is a child advocacy organization that works to ensure a level playing field for the children. The situation was observed is the area of study that CDF was championing policies and programs that lift children out of poverty, protect them from abuse and neglect and ensure that their rights to equal care and education.

Problems faced by NGOs

Table 4:5 chapter four reveals that there is a problem of lack of funds where by NGOs express difficulty in funding for the work. This is because they find accessing donors as challenging as dealing with their funding conditions.

The researcher observed this situation in the area of study whereby there were limited resource mobilization skills and are often not looking for funds that are available locally, preferring to wait for international donors to match them. There was also high dependency of donors and attendance to shift interventions to match donor priorities.

In addition, table 4:5; chapter four, also shows that there is lack of cohesion and ineffectiveness of these organisations in addressing needs such as health, income and society security education among others.

This is in line with Jairos Jiri Association, (1996) which adds that to some extent, local NGOs failed to realize and articulate issues affecting disabled persons.

This situation was observed in the area of study whereby the local NGOs seem to duplicate CBR programme activities rather than filling in important gaps left by others in a complimentary way.

5.2. Recommendations

The researcher found out that;

The government should increase on the funds re-allocated to the NGOS and PWDs so as to facilitate their work and wellbeing. NGOs were also encouraged to carry out fundraising to enable them raise resources for the smooth running of the different projects

Parents and care takers of PWDs should fully support their children with disabilities through the provision of the required basic needs and not to just abandon them.

There should be sensitization of the community on the rights of PWDs and the role of NGOS in the community so as to equalize opportunities and include them in community participation.

There should be guidance and counseling sessions held more often to not only the PWDs but also their parents so as to boost their self esteem and reduce on their isolation.

The government and community leaders should encourage formation of NGOS and CBOs that cater and support for the needs of PWDs in the community. This in the end could increase on the financial support from the donations given by these NGOS and CBOs.

5.3. Areas for further stud proposed for the discussion of disability inclusion

Table 4:6; in chapter four shows that capacity development of the staff involved in the international cooperation and emergency response could be invested in awareness-raising and capacity building related to the rights of PWDs. This is in line with the CRPD (article 4.1.i the researcher observed that the understanding of the biosocial model of disability could be developed among the different actors and stakeholders working in development communities and emergency situations.

In addition, table 4:6; in chapter four, also shows that the establishment of the United Nations Entity for Gender Equality and the Empowerment of Women (UN Women) could play a crucial role in operationalizing the rights of women with disability.

This was emphasized in the annual ministerial reviews of the Economic Social Council for 2010 and 2011.

This researcher observed that agenda perspective could be included in the disability work. The right to equality is essential, as well as being a means to achieving inclusive development through the empowerment of women, a full enjoyment of their human rights and the eradication of poverty could be essential to development efforts, including the achievement of the MDGs.

REFERENCES

Basma bint Talal (2004): Rethinking an NGO: Development, Donars and Civil Society in Jordan.

Bill Albert, Andrew Kudakweshe Dube, and Trine Cecilie Riis-Hansen, ‘Has Disability been mainstreamed into Development Cooperation (Disability kar Programme 2005).

Carroll, T.F. (1992): Intermediary NGOS. The supporting link in Grassroots Development, West Hartford: Kumarian Press.

Jairos Jiri Association (1996): External Evaluation Report. HQ, Bulawayo L.B. Tauris, Londo.

Lang, R. (2000): The role of NGOS in the process of empowerment and social transformation of people with disabilities. Selected Readings in Community Based Rehabilitation. Asia Pacific Disability Rehabilitaion journal, Bangalore.

Suresh, K.A. (1990). Participation of Beneficiaries in the Development Programme of Non-Government Organisation in Kerala, Journal of Rural Development, 95, pp.911-915.

Teresa Mwenda, Ambrose Murangira, Raymond Lang, ‘Mainstreaming the Rights of Persons with Disabilities in National Development Frameworks’ (2009): 21 Journal of International Development 662,672; Alison Harris and Sue Enfield.

WHO (2004). CBR: Community Based Rehabilitation for Persons with Disability. Joint Position Paper, Geneva.

WHO and World Bank (2011). World Report on Disability: Geneva, Switzerland: 267. Vol.24, no.4, 2013.

United Nations Convention on Rights of Persons with Disability; United Nations, New Year 2006.

United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF); October 2007.

Role of ICT for Persons with Disabilities; November 2004; New Delhi, India.

Education Cluster Coordination Team (Save the Children and UNICEF).

Best Practices for including Persons with Disabilities in all Aspects of Development Efforts. April 2011.

Wilson-Gua, Ricardo, and Martha Nunes (2006). Evaluating International Social Change Networks; a Conceptual Framework for a Participatory Approach.

Canadian Association for Community Living (2004). A tool for Family Advocacy.

The role and impact of NGOS in capacity building; Inger Ulleberg. Paris, France (2009).

Monitoring human rights and the rule of law in Europe. Advocacy; July (2006).

Network of independent experts in Fundamental Rights; Erickson(2002-2006).

The URL of the site is http://www.123.ngo-bg.org.

New Rights Advocacy; Changing Strategies of Development and Human Rights NGOS. Paul J. Nelson Ellen Dersey. Washington DC.

Breaking silence; The case that changed the face of Human Rights. Richard Alan White.

APPENDICES

SEMI-STRUCTURED INTERVIEW QUIDE FOR LOCAL LEADERS

Dear respondents

I AKELLO HARRIET HOPE a student of Kyambogo University conducting a research in development studies on the contribution of NGOS in advocacy for the rights of PWDs. I have identified you as a potential respondent for my study and therefore kindly request you to take part in the oral interviews I will conduct as your response will be treated with extreme confidentiality.

Please tick in the appropriate boxes and write answers in the space provided.

SECTION A: Background information

Code………………………………………………….

• Gender: Male Female

• Age composition:

10-15              15-20                         20-25                          25-30             Above 30

SECTION B:

3. What are some of the NGOS in your community?

………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..……………

4. What are the roles of the NGOS in advocating for rights of PWDs?

………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

5. What do you think are the problems faced by NGOS towards advocating for the rights of PWDs?

……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

6. Suggest any possible solutions.

……………………………………………………………………………………………..………………………………………………………………………………………………………

7. What achievements have they managed to attain in advocating for the rights of PWDs?

……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

8. What recommendations would you give in regards to the topic under investigation?

……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

                                        THANK YOU FOR YOUR TIME

SEMI-STRUCTURED INTERVIEW GUIDE FOR PWDS

Dear respondents,

I am AKELLO HARRIET HOPE a student of Kyambogo University conducting a research in Development studies on the contribution of NGOS in advocacy for rights of PWDs. I have identified you as a potential respondent to my study and therefore kindly request you to take part in the oral interview I will conduct as your response will be treated with extreme confidentiality.

Please tick in the appropriate boxes and write answers in the space provided

SECTION A: Background information

Code…………………………………………………

• Gender: Male                        Female

2. Age composition:

10-15                 15-20            20-25               25-30                 Above 30

SECTION B:

3. What services are provided by the NGOS around you?

…………………………………………………………………………………………

4. What do you think are the problems faced by NGOS in advocating for your right

…………………………………………………………………………………………

…………………………………………………………………………………………

5. What are the possible solutions to the problems faced by NGOS in advocating for your rights?

…………………………………………………………………………………………

……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

THANK YOU FOR YOUR TIME

QUESTIONNAIRE FOR PARENTS

I AKELLO HARRIET HOPE a student of Kyambogo University conducting a research in development studies conducting a research on the contribution of NGOS in advocacy for the rights of people with disabilities. It is a pre request for the award of my academic qualification, I kindly request you to respond to my research as the response will be treated with extremely confidentiality.

(Please tick the appropriate answers were options are given)

SECTION A: DEMOGRAPHIC CHARACTERISTICS OF RESPONDENT’S

1. Age bracket

A). 15-20          B). 21-24          C). 25-30                   D).Above 30

2. Gender

A). Male                         b). Female

3. Marital status

A). Single            b). Married             c). Cohabiting                    d). Divorced

E). Widowed

4. Educational level

A).  Primary                        B). Tertiary

C). Secondary               D). 0thers specify

• Employment status

A). Peasant                      b). Business               c). Civil servant

SECTION B

1. What type of disability does your child have?

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

2. What problems do they face in the community?

………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..………………………………………………………….

3. Do they get some of any help from NGOS or DPOS?

A). Yes                  b). No

4. What are the roles that NGOS have played in the advocacy of rights of persons with disability

………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….…………………………………………………………………

5. What are the problems facing NGOS in your community?

A). Low funds                b). Limited skilled labor

C). Government policy

If others specify?

…………………………………………………………………………………………

6. According to the problems mentioned, suggest any solution to the problems.

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

7. What recommendations would you give these organizations?

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

8. Is there any other information relevant for this study that you would like to provide?

INTERVIEW GUIDE FOR NGOS

I AKELLO HARRIET HOPE a student of Kyambogo University conducting a research in development studies conducting a research on the contribution of NGOS in advocacy for the rights of people with disabilities. It is a pre request for the award of my academic qualification, I kindly request you to respond to my research as the response will be treated with extremely confidentiality.

(Please tick the appropriate answers were options are given)

SECTION A: DEMOGRAPHIC CHARACTERISTICS OF RESPONDENT’S

1. Age bracket

A). 10-14years                   b). 15-20            c). 21-24            d). 25-30            e). Above 30

2. Gender

A). Male                         b). Female

3. Marital status

A). Single            b). Married           c). Cohabiting          d). Divorced

E). Widowed

4. Educational level

A). Primary             b). Tertiary                  c). Secondary

5. Employment status

A). Peasant                      b). Business               c). Civil servant

SECTION B

1. What do you understand by disability?

……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

2. What kind of services or help do you offer in the community?

……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

3. How have organizations managed to address the needs of persons with disability?

……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

4. Have they faced any challenges in regards to advocating for rights of PWDs?……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
5. How have they overcome these challenges faced?

……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

6. How far have NGOS managed to deal with the challenges face while advocating for rights of PWDs?

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

7. What achievements have you managed to attain in advocating for rights of PWDs?

………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

8. What recommendations would you give in regards the contributions of NGOS in the advocacy of rights of persons with disability?

……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

9. Has the government of Uganda put a hand in the contribution of NGOS towards advocacy of rights of PWDs?

………………………………………………………………………………………………

THANK YOU SO MUCH

QUESTIONNAIRES FOR PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES

I AKELLO HARRIET HOPE a student of Kyambogo University conducting a research in development studies conducting a research on the contribution of NGOS in advocacy for the rights of people with disabilities. It is a pre request for the award of my academic qualification, I kindly request you to respond to my research as the response will be treated with extremely confidentiality.

(Please tick the appropriate answers were options are given)

SECTION A: DEMOGRAPHIC CHARACTERISTICS OF RESPONDENT’S

1. Age bracket

A). 10-14years                         b). 15-20            c). 21-24            d). 25-30          e). Above 30

2. Gender

A). Male                         b). Female

3. Marital status

A). Single            b). Married          c). Cohabiting        d). Divorced

E). Widowed

4. Educational level

A   Primary                       c). Tertiary               d). Secondary

5. Employment status

A). Peasant                      b). Business               c). Civil servant

6. How often do you receive assistance from NGOS / DPOs?

……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

7. How reliable are NGOS/ DPOs?

……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

8. Do NGOS/ DPOs always fulfill their promises?

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

9. Are there services free of charge or you pay for them?

……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

10. What challenges do you experience in life?

………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

11. What do you want to be done for you in order to overcome these challenges?

………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

THANK YOU FOR YOUR TIME