Explain Why You Gave Us Wrong Numbers- UBOS Tasked to Explain Where it Took 3.4 Million PWDs

Alex Ndeezi says it is concerning that the government might fail to adequately plan for PWDs due to the controversial figures

UBOS last week admitted errors in the census results and attempted to explain them away but the results have been dismissed by the majority members of the public.

Persons Living With Disability (PWDs) have demanded the Uganda Bureau of Statistics (UBOS) explains where 3.4 million disabled persons have disappeared to in just 10 years.

Alex Ndeezi, the Member of Parliament representing PWDs, raised serious concerns over the sudden and dramatic reduction in Uganda’s reported disability statistics.

In 2014, the number of individuals with disabilities in the country was estimated at 6.4 million.

However, the 2024 national demographic and population survey results recently released by UBOS shows a significant drop, indicating only 3 million people with disabilities in 2024—a difference of 3.4 million people unaccounted for.

"Where did the 3.4 million people with disabilities go?" Ndeezi asked, demanding greater transparency and accountability for the gap in the data.

He stressed the importance of accurate statistics to ensure that policies and services are effectively designed to meet the needs of this vulnerable group.

Ndeezi also expressed frustration with government officials, accusing them of making generalized commitments that often fail to address the specific challenges faced by persons with disabilities.

"Government officials make general commitments to specific duties but forget the issues of people with disabilities," he said.

He warned that this oversight not only distorts the data but also hampers efforts to improve the lives of those living with disabilities.

Without accurate figures, he noted, it becomes increasingly difficult to allocate resources, develop appropriate programs, or push for reforms that could positively impact the PWDs community.

As the Uganda Bureau of Statistics (UBOS) prepares to review its report, Ndeezi urged that the unique circumstances of persons with disabilities must be at the forefront of their considerations.

"As UBOS reviews its report, issues of people with disabilities should be taken into account," he emphasized.

His call for a more inclusive and transparent approach highlights the urgent need for comprehensive policies that safeguard the rights and wellbeing of all Ugandans living with disabilities.

The disappearance of 3.4 million people in official records signals a pressing issue that must be addressed to ensure that no one is left behind.

UBOS last week admitted errors in the census results and attempted to explain them away but the results have been dismissed by the majority members of the public.