news 12 April 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Arua's Disabled Musician Alfred Cadribo Masters Bow Harp with Legs for Survival
Despite being born with paralyzed hands and deformed legs, 42-year-old Alfred Cadribo from Arua plays the traditional Adungu bow harp using his feet near Arua Hospital each morning to support his family. His inspiring performances draw crowds and highlight his resilience amid calls for support with transport, housing, and children's education. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/alfred-cadribo-the-disabled-man-in-arua-using-his-legs-to-play-bow-harps-to-make-a-living-5421424
Alfred Cadribo, a 42-year-old man from Oreku Village in Arua District, has turned his physical challenges into a source of livelihood. Born with paralyzed hands and deformed legs, he skillfully plays the traditional Adungu bow harp—common among Acholi and Alur communities—using only his feet.
Each morning, Cadribo sets up an open-air performance near Arua Hospital, drawing passersby with soulful melodies that evoke joy, sorrow, and inspiration. Songs like ‘Likicho- Bari Likicho,’ which lament loneliness and hardship, resonate deeply, often moving audiences to tears and donations. On good days, he earns up to Shs100,000 to feed his wife and four children, pay school fees, and cover basics.
A devoted Christian married since 2014, he treks 16 kilometers daily from home. He learned the instrument from his father as a child and has performed consistently at markets, churches, and hospitals for decades. Cadribo even contributes to his parish, St John Paul Oriajini, from his earnings.
Community members and leaders praise his talent and spirit. Residents like Geoffrey Tibo and Doreen Ayakaka highlight needs for better transport, decent housing, and education aid to help him expand beyond Arua. Councillor Annette Faidah and Parish Priest Rev Fr Francis Xavier Okuni call him an extraordinary gift, urging government support.
Cadribo dreams of his eldest daughter becoming a nun and his secondborn a church brother, but worries about their schooling amid financial strains. His story embodies the message that disability does not limit ability.
Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)