Factors hindering the realization of the right to freedom of association of disabled women in Mpigi District

Abstract

The study analyzed the factors that hinder the right to association of disabled women in Mpigi district. This was motivated by limited participation of women with disabilities in the associations being formed in their areas and their failure to form associations of their own. The objectives of the study were to find out the factors that hinder women with disabilities from enjoying their right to freedom of association and to suggest remedies to this problem; to give the meaning and legal framework of the right to freedom of association; to find out whether the right to freedom of association is respected in Uganda with specific reference to women with disabilities; to identify the importance of this right to other fundamental rights and to expose the resultant situation from WWDs failure to exercise their right to freedom of association in Mpigi district.

The study area was limited to Gomba County and focus was on women with disabilities and leaders of mainstream women associations. The area was purposively selected because the county seems to be neglected as compared to other counties of the district.

The study design employed a cross sectional survey that utilized both quantitative and qualitative methods of data collection. Primary data were collected through face to face interviews using an interview guide which required short answers. Guiding questions for key informants were also used to obtain data from the female councilors of disabled persons at sub county level.

The study findings revealed that there are several factors that hinder women with disabilities from their right to freedom of association. The study also revealed that there are problems suffered by the disabled women on account of their disabilities. These problems include among others; domestic violence, being single mothers, unemployment and lack of capital to start off income generating projects for themselves.