Uganda to Mark International Day of Little Persons on October 25

The Government of Uganda, through the Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development (MGLSD), will join the rest of the world to commemorate the International Day of Little Persons on October 25, 2025, under the national theme:
“Raising Awareness about Dwarfism and Promoting Inclusion of Little Persons in Uganda.”

The day, celebrated annually, seeks to raise awareness about dwarfism, promote inclusion, and advocate for the rights of persons with short stature, commonly referred to as Little Persons.

Addressing the media on Monday, ahead of the national celebrations, Hon. Asamo Hellen Grace (MP), Minister of State for Disability Affairs, said the event provides an important platform to amplify the voices, capacities, and contributions of Little Persons in Uganda.

“Commemorating this day enhances public understanding of dwarfism while dispelling myths, reducing stigma, and promoting a culture of respect and dignity,” Hon. Asamo said. “It also reaffirms Uganda’s commitment to building an inclusive society where all persons with disabilities are valued, empowered, and fully integrated as equal members.”

According to the Uganda National Housing and Population Statistics (2024), the country has more than 194,000 Little Persons, 89,102 males and 105,169 females aged 18 years and above. Dwarfism, the most common form being achondroplasia, affects one in every 15,000 to 40,000 births worldwide.

Hon. Asamo highlighted several government initiatives aimed at improving the lives of Little Persons and promoting disability inclusion. These include: implementation of the Persons with Disabilities Act (2020) and the Revised National Policy on Persons with Disabilities, which emphasize protection, non-discrimination, and equal participation, affirmative action to support access to education, healthcare, and tertiary institutions for learners with short stature, and economic empowerment through the National Special Disability Grant and the Parish Development Model, which reserves 10% of funds for disability-inclusive programs.

Other programs include the establishment of EMYOOGA SACCO for Persons with Disabilities at the national level, with an initial capitalisation of UGX 50 million and partnerships with organizations such as the Foundation of Persons Affected by Dwarfism (FPAD) to promote awareness, advocacy, and inclusion.

Hon. Asamo emphasized that the Government remains committed to increasing the participation of Little Persons in policy development and program design. “Through collaboration with stakeholders, we will continue to strengthen awareness and eliminate barriers to inclusion,” she added.

Despite the progress, Little Persons in Uganda still face significant challenges, including limited access to education, healthcare, employment, and transportation, as well as persistent social stigma. Many public facilities and workplaces remain physically inaccessible, and cultural misconceptions continue to fuel discrimination.

The Minister called for stronger enforcement of accessibility standards, better training of health professionals, and increased disability-sensitive infrastructure planning.

The national commemoration will be held at the Kampala School for the Disabled, Mengo, on Saturday, October 25, 2025. The event will feature keynote addresses, cultural performances, panel discussions, educational sessions on dwarfism, exhibitions, and the launch of a Dwarfism Fact Booklet.

Hon. Asamo called upon government institutions, civil society, the media, and the general public to support efforts that advance the rights and dignity of Little Persons.