
A step towards inclusive and climate-smart agriculture was taken as Integrated Disabled Women Activities Women with Albinism Association, and Kaliro Focus of Women with Disabilities Association, under a coalition partnership actively participated in the Kaliro District Budget Conference. The coalition submitted an alternative budget proposal advocating for measures that enhance climate resilience and agricultural sustainability, particularly for persons with disabilities.
The budget conference, held at the district headquarters, brought together key stakeholders, including district leaders, policymakers, civil society organizations, and representatives from marginalized groups. The participation of WAA, IDIWA, and KAFOWIDA marked a significant step towards ensuring that disability-inclusive and gender-responsive policies are integrated into the district’s financial planning.
Recognizing the increasing impact of climate change on vulnerable communities, the coalition presented a well-researched alternative budget proposal aimed at improving climate-smart agricultural practices in Kaliro. Key recommendations included:
To enhance adaptive farming techniques, the coalition called for increased investment in climate-smart demonstration gardens to serve as practical training centers for farmers, especially those with disabilities.
The coalition urged the district government to formulate a clear policy framework guiding climate-smart agricultural practices, ensuring sustainability and inclusivity in food production.
A key component of the proposal was the targeted distribution of fruit tree seedlings to PWDs to promote economic empowerment, environmental conservation, and food security.
Following the amendment of the Kaliro District Policy on Disability-Inclusive Sexual and Gender-Based Violence and Climate Justice, the coalition emphasized the importance of integrating disability perspectives into all aspects of agricultural development and climate action.
The advocacy aligns with the broader agenda of mainstreaming gender, disability, environment and climate change nexus. Their participation in the budget conference ensured that the voices of marginalized groups, particularly women and girls with disabilities, were heard in crucial district planning processes which district officials pledged to review and incorporate key recommendations into the final budget. The District Chief Administrative Officer commended the coalition for their commitment to sustainable development, stating, “The inclusion of persons with disabilities in climate-smart agriculture is a necessary step towards achieving equitable development in Kaliro.”
The active engagement in the budget conference underscores unwavering commitment to fostering sustainable, disability-inclusive development in Kaliro District. Their advocacy sets a precedent for future participatory budget planning, ensuring that the needs of marginalized communities remain at the center of policy discussions.