Uganda's Kiriyandongo refugee camp is home to a staggering number of Sudanese refugees with disabilities, a crisis that demands our attention. Over 400 individuals with disabilities, many with mobility impairments, are living in this camp, and their stories are heartbreaking.
Mona Abu Al-Qasim, a dedicated advocate for disability rights, has brought to light the harsh realities these refugees endure. She reveals that the camp's residential zones A, B, and C are where most of these refugees reside, and their disabilities are often a direct consequence of the war's brutality. Imagine the trauma of having your life altered forever by injuries sustained in conflict!
But here's where it gets even more concerning: the ongoing violence in Darfur and Kordofan has led to a surge in the refugee population, and with it, a rise in disabilities. As of May 2025, 60% of the camp's residential zones now include persons with disabilities. This increase is a stark reminder of the war's devastating impact.
The situation in Sudan is dire, with 30 million people in need of aid, and 4.6 million of them living with disabilities. The conflict has caused a shocking 300% increase in permanent disabilities, including amputations, spinal injuries, sight loss, and hearing impairments. And this is the part most people miss: the psychological toll is just as devastating, with 4 million people suffering from severe mental disorders and 60,000 children experiencing PTSD symptoms.
The collapse of government rehabilitation centers, the exodus of specialized staff, and the suspension of crucial programs have created a perfect storm, leaving these vulnerable individuals without the support they desperately need. The withdrawal of international organizations and the disruption of local disability organizations' work have only worsened the crisis.
This situation is a humanitarian emergency that requires immediate attention and action. The future of these refugees with disabilities hangs in the balance, and their plight should not be ignored. Are we doing enough to support these vulnerable communities?
