A Future Without Limits: Ripple Effect’s Mission to Empower Those Most at Risk of Discrimination

By Sofanit Mesfin, Gender & Social Inclusion Coordinator at Ripple Effect

ACAP is a participatory tool designed to assess and address the challenges faced by people, particularly to empower those who are at higher risk of discrimination, such as people living with disabilities. The tool assesses four key domains:

1. Attitude

Many of the barriers faced by people with disabilities stem from societal perceptions and cultural taboos. ACAP helps communities identify and challenge negative stereotypes, both external and internal. By addressing these misconceptions, we empower individuals to participate fully in community and development work.

2. Communication

Effective communication is key to inclusion. ACAP evaluates the accessibility of communication methods within communities, ensuring that information is shared in a way that accommodates all individuals. For example, if messages are only delivered in audio form, how do individuals with hearing impairments receive critical information? By identifying these gaps, Ripple Effect works to implement inclusive solutions, such as sign language interpretation and visual aids.

3. Access and Participation

Physical barriers often prevent individuals with disabilities from engaging in training, education, and community initiatives. ACAP examines whether roads, buildings, and training centres are accessible to all. Based on the findings, we design tailored solutions, such as covering additional costs for sign language interpreters or modifying infrastructure, to ensure full participation.

By implementing ACAP, Ripple Effect ensures that every individual, regardless of their ability, has the opportunity to contribute and benefit from our transformative programmes.

For years, Hildah relied on a small income from knitting and basket weaving, working from the home of her sign language interpreter, Vastine Natukunda. Isolated and struggling to provide for her children after being abandoned by their father, she faced immense challenges.

Transformation through enterprise skilling

Everything changed when Hildah joined the YIDaMS Project, a Ripple Effect-supported initiative focused on youth empowerment through enterprise development. Through her local youth group, Hildah gained valuable skills in ghee production, business management, and entrepreneurship.

After three weeks of intensive training at Kagira Farm School Skills Development Centre, Hildah was equipped with the knowledge and confidence to launch her own business. She now produces and sells ghee and mandazi (a type of fried bread), earning a steady income.

Building a sustainable future

Today, Hildah produces 10kg of ghee monthly, earning 250,000 Ugandan Shillings (UGX) (equivalent to £53.46). She uses her profits to pay school fees for her children. Additionally, she sells knitted tablecloths and saves UGX 4,000 weekly through her SILC group, which has allowed her to sustain her livelihood without needing a bank loan.

Overcoming challenges & looking ahead

While Hildah has made remarkable progress, she still faces challenges, including limited equipment and materials for ghee and confectionery production. However, she remains optimistic, with a goal to save enough money to buy land and secure a stable future for her children.

Hildah's journey is a powerful testament to the impact of inclusive, skills-based empowerment. By ensuring accessibility and participation, we can create a world where no one is left behind.

Through initiatives like ACAP and projects tailored to transform the lives of people at risk of discrimination, we are not just addressing discrimination but actively creating pathways for inclusion, dignity, and opportunity.

Together, we can ensure that individuals like Hildah are not defined by their disabilities but empowered by their abilities.

Join us in creating a future where everyone, regardless of ability, has the chance to thrive.