On Sunday, hundreds of runners gathered at Kitebi Primary School in Kampala for the second edition of the Annual Disability Run.

The run, organized by Persons with Disabilities in Business (PIB-UG), and powered by I&M Bank, was officially flagged off by Hon. Faith Nakut, Woman Member of Parliament for Napak District and Commissioner of Parliament, who represented the Speaker of Parliament as the Chief Runner.

In her remarks, Nakut commended the organizers for championing disability inclusion through sport.

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"Persons with disabilities deserve opportunities to demonstrate their abilities, develop their skills and contribute to society. We must work together to remove barriers that limit their participation and ensure they can access opportunities that promote independence and improve their livelihoods," she said.

Dr. Vincent Ssenabulya, the representative of persons with disabilities in the Buganda Kingdom Lukiiko, emphasized the importance of empowering persons with disabilities through practical interventions that enable them to become economically independent.

"Persons with disabilities have the potential to contribute meaningfully to their communities when given the necessary skills and opportunities. We need to create an environment where they can develop their talents, engage in productive activities and become self-reliant," he said.

The event featured a 5km race that attracted both able-bodied and differently-abled participants, using sport to promote interaction and raise awareness about the importance of creating an inclusive society.

I&M Bank renewed its support for the event, having been a partner at the inaugural edition last year.

Annette Nakiyaga, I&M Bank's Head of Marketing and Corporate Communications, said the Bank's Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programme is an important part of how it operates responsibly and contributes to the communities it serves.

"Our CSR strategy is anchored on four pillars: enabling giving, education and skills development, economic empowerment, and environmental conservation. Being a part of this event aligns particularly with our commitment to enabling giving, as well as education and skills development. We recognise that investing in people and equipping them with relevant skills creates opportunities for a lasting impact.

"This also reflects our brand promise- On Your Side. For us, this means standing alongside our communities, supporting meaningful initiatives and helping create opportunities for a better future for all," she said.

Peninah Nakandi, the Executive Director of PIB-UG, said proceeds from the run would go towards establishing a resource centre where persons with disabilities can acquire practical skills and engage in income-generating activities.

"Persons with disabilities have the potential to become self-reliant if given opportunities and the necessary skills. Through the resource centre, we want to equip them with practical skills that can help them establish businesses, generate income and improve their quality of life," Nakandi said.