The cheers grew louder as athletes with spinal cord injuries pushed their wheelchairs across the MUBS football pitch, competing in a wheelchair rugby demonstration.
For the athletes, the display was more than sport. It was a chance to show their abilities and challenge the way people view disability.
Wheelchair rugby players at the fifth MUBS Disability Awareness Day on Wednesday 7 October.
Jairus Wanyera, treasurer of the Spinal Injuries Sports Group in Nakawa, said sport gives people with spinal cord injuries confidence and an opportunity to take part in community life.
The group has 25 members who play wheelchair rugby, basketball, badminton and tennis.
Equipment is the biggest obstacle
However, Wanyera said their progress is limited by a lack of specialised equipment.
"The biggest problem is that even with this equipment, we can't find it on the Ugandan market or the African market. It becomes a very big challenge and even getting one is very expensive," he said.
The athletes demonstrated wheelchair rugby during the fifth MUBS Disability Awareness Day on Wednesday.
"A powerful tool for inclusion"
Minister of State for Disability Affairs Joyce Acan Okeny, who was the chief guest, said sport can help change attitudes by allowing people with disabilities to show their abilities rather than their limitations.
"Sports and games are a powerful tool for inclusion," Okeny said.
She said sport can build confidence, teamwork, leadership and friendships, while also creating opportunities for talent development and economic empowerment.
Wanyera called for more support from the government and partners, including wheelchairs and other basic needs, to help people with spinal cord injuries take full part in society.
Source: ChampionSport Reporter
