Pathways to Hope Africa, Mobility Worldwide, and Columbia SIPA Capstone Team Conclude Disability-Inclusive Enterprise Research Mission in Uganda

rhodakyam
May 12
2 min read

Category: Inclusive Development | Social Enterprise | Disability Empowerment

Overview

In March 2025, a research team from Columbia University’s School of International and Public Affairs (SIPA) concluded a mission to Uganda in collaboration with Pathways to Hope Africa (PTHA) and Mobility Worldwide (MWW). This visit marked the final stage of a six-month joint research project focused on one central question: How can we create a sustainable social enterprise that provides real jobs for persons with disabilities (PWDs), who remain largely excluded from Uganda’s labor market?

PTHA , SIPA and Local Persons with Disabillty leaders from soroti posing for a group photo.

The Problem: Widespread Unemployment Among PWDs

Uganda is home to over 12 million persons with disabilities, yet many face severe challenges finding employment. Despite their willingness and ability to work, PWDs are systematically excluded from economic participation due to stigma, inaccessible infrastructure, and a lack of inclusive opportunities. During their fieldwork, the team conducted more than 30 interviews with PWDs, caregivers, community leaders, and disability inclusion experts. These conversations revealed the urgent need to shift from charity-based models to employment-driven solutions that offer independence, income, and dignity.

The SIPA Team members meeting and interviewing Community persons with disabilities and their care givers in Soroti, Uganda.

The Solution: A Community-Led Social Enterprise Model

Based on the research, the partners developed a blueprint for a community-based enterprise designed to:

✅ Create meaningful jobs for PWDs and their caregivers

✅ Assemble and distribute mobility carts suited for Ugandan terrain

✅ Incorporate recycling and vocational training into the business model

✅ Promote inclusive hiring and local ownership.

This approach doesn't just aim to distribute aid—it empowers PWDs as skilled workers, leaders, and innovators who contribute to the economy and change public perception.

Highlights from the Research Trip in Soroti, Uganda

Next Steps

The project is now moving into its implementation phase. The immediate goal is to raise seed funding to:- Launch a pilot enterprise workshop- Customize Mobility Worldwide’s proven cart designs for Uganda- Roll out vocational and technical training programs for inclusive employmentOver time, the initiative plans to scale regionally, expanding into new enterprises that increase income, inclusion, and independence for people with disabilities.

Call to Action

PTHA, MWW, and Columbia SIPA are currently finalizing a comprehensive report and investment proposal to share with Donors and foundations, Social impact investors, and Government and development agencies. Their message is clear: “Disability-inclusive enterprise is not charity—it’s a strategy. If we want to break the cycle of poverty for families affected by disability, we must create opportunities to work.”

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