Abstract
The study aimed at examining the participation of people with disabilities in government programmes: a case study of Mityana municipality, the study was directed by the stated objectives. The study was guided by three specific objectives: to examine the influence of people with disabilities in government programmes, to identify the challenges they face while participating in these programmes, and to establish possible measures to mitigate these challenges. A quantitative research approach was adopted, and data were analyzed using multiple linear regression to determine the relationship between the study variables. The findings revealed that participation of people with disabilities in government programmes is significantly influenced by several factors including their involvement in planning processes, representation in leadership structures, access to programme information, and availability of government support services. The results showed that when persons with disabilities are actively involved in decision-making and planning processes, their level of influence in programme implementation increases significantly. Access to information and support services was also found to enhance their ability to engage effectively in government initiatives. The study further established that people with disabilities face a number of challenges that hinder their effective participation in government programmes. These challenges include physical accessibility barriers, limited financial support, negative community attitudes, and inadequate awareness about available government programmes. Physical barriers such as inaccessible buildings and transportation systems were identified as major constraints that limit mobility and access to programme activities. In addition, financial constraints and limited economic opportunities reduce the ability of persons with disabilities to participate fully in development programmes. Social barriers, particularly negative attitudes and discrimination from community members, also discourage active involvement. In order to address these challenges, the study identified several important measures that can improve participation of people with disabilities in government programmes. These measures include strengthening disability-inclusive policies, increasing community sensitization and awareness, improving financial empowerment programmes for persons with disabilities, and enhancing accessibility of infrastructure in public institutions. The findings suggest that a combination of policy reforms, social awareness initiatives, economic empowerment programmes, and improved accessibility of public facilities is essential for promoting inclusive participation. The study concluded that while government programmes in Mityana Municipality provide opportunities for development, the participation of people with disabilities remains limited due to structural, economic, and social barriers. Therefore, greater efforts are required to ensure that government policies and programmes fully integrate the needs and rights of persons with disabilities.
Keywords
People with disabilities, government programmes, participation, challenges, disability inclusion, accessibility, community attitudes, financial empowerment, inclusive policies