Absa Bank Uganda has donated Shs40 million to the Kyaninga Child Development Centre (KCDC) to support critical therapeutic services, nutrition, and mobility for children living with disabilities in the Rwenzori region.
The contribution is aimed at strengthening KCDC’s capacity to deliver specialised therapy and inclusive education to more than 1,000 children each month by addressing their holistic needs. The initiative aligns with Absa’s citizenship agenda, which seeks to be a force for good by tackling social challenges and supporting a just and inclusive future for all.
Speaking at the handover ceremony, Absa Bank Uganda Managing Director David Wandera emphasised the bank’s commitment to inclusive growth.
“An estimated 2.5 million children living with disabilities in Uganda remain excluded from school due to mobility challenges. As Absa, we are proud to support the Kyaninga bamboo wheelchair project with this investment in the dignity and educational future of these children,” Wandera said.
A significant portion of the donation—Shs27 million—was allocated to the procurement of innovative, specially designed bamboo wheelchairs. Produced locally by Kyaninga Mobility, the wheelchairs represent a breakthrough in assistive technology tailored for the rugged terrain of the Rwenzori region.
Unlike standard metallic imports, which are often difficult to repair and prone to damage on rough landscapes, the bamboo wheelchairs are engineered using 75 per cent locally sourced bamboo. This design offers a high strength-to-weight ratio, making the chairs durable yet light enough for easy transport.
The remaining funds were used to provide essential educational materials and specialised nutritious food, both of which are critical for children undergoing intensive physical therapy and rehabilitation.
Steven Leonard Williams, founder of the Kyaninga Child Development Centre, welcomed the partnership, noting that the support would have a lasting impact.
“We are grateful to Absa Uganda for recognising the value of our locally made, eco-friendly wheelchairs. This support ensures that children with disabilities are no longer confined to their homes but can actively participate in school and community life,” Williams said.
The bamboo wheelchairs are tested to ISO standards, weigh only 11.5kg (18kg with wheels), and feature quick-release wheels and foldable components. Their production supports local enterprise under the Buy Uganda, Build Uganda initiative while offering affordable, resilient mobility solutions with a lower carbon footprint.
Absa Uganda continues to champion sustainable community development through targeted investments in health, education, and social inclusion.
