INSIDE UGANDA’S NATIONAL DIGITAL OBSERVATORY FOR PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES

In a country accelerating toward a Digital Economy, access to Information, Jobs, and Services remains unequal for many Persons with Disabilities (PWDs). Uganda’s National Digital Observatory for Persons with Disabilities is changing that narrative by placing data, opportunity, and inclusion at the center of digital transformation.

Developed under the ICT4PWDs Programme, with support from the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) in partnership with NUDIPU and Eight Tech, the Observatory is a centralized digital platform designed to respond to one of the most persistent challenges facing PWDs: invisibility in data, employment systems, and digital services.

Turning Data into Dignity

For years, the lack of accurate, disaggregated data on Persons with Disabilities has limited effective planning and service delivery. The National Digital Observatory directly addresses this gap by systematically profiling PWDs across districts, capturing key information such as disability type, education level, skills, and employment status.To date, over 120,000+ Persons with Disabilities have been profiled so far, creating one of the most reliable disability datasets in the country. This data is already informing district planning, national policy discussions, and targeted interventions, ensuring that decisions are based on evidence rather than assumptions.

Connecting Skills to Jobs

Beyond data, the Observatory is a powerful employment-enabling tool. Through its integrated Job Portal, employers can post inclusive job opportunities while PWDs can access listings tailored to their skills and accessibility needs. The platform promotes both formal and informal employment, including remote and work-from-home opportunities that help overcome mobility and geographical barriers.

With continuous job postings and employer engagement, the Observatory is steadily becoming a trusted bridge between PWDs and the labour market, demonstrating that Disability is not Inability when systems are designed inclusively

Technology Designed for Inclusion

Accessibility is at the core of the Observatory’s design. The platform integrates user-friendly interfaces, accessibility standards, and digital support mechanisms to ensure that PWDs with different impairments can navigate it with ease. Planned upgrades include resume-building tools, advanced analytics, and assistive features that further enhance usability and impact.

In addition, the Observatory is being expanded to include a Knowledge Management module for Organizations of Persons with Disabilities (OPDs) and District Unions. This enables them to track projects, manage milestones, and document impact,t strengthening accountability and sustainability at the community level.

A Tool for Policy, Planning, and Progress

What makes the National Digital Observatory unique is its multi-purpose value. The government, it provides credible data to support inclusive policy formulation and monitoring. For development partners, it offers insights for targeted programming. For PWDs themselves, it represents visibility, opportunity, and voice in Uganda’s digital future.

As Uganda advances its national digital transformation agenda, the National Digital Observatory stands as a practical example of how inclusive technology can drive social and economic participation. By placing Persons with Disabilities at the center of data, innovation, and opportunity, the Observatory is not just a platform it is a statement that inclusive digital development is possible, necessary, and achievable.  To Enjoy Unlimited Service Opportunities on the National Digital Observatory, click on this link https://ict4personswithdisabilities.org or Dial *255*65#