development 12 July 2026 Nile Post

Shs60 Million Maize Mill Boosts Economic Independence for Visually Impaired in Mayuge

A Shs60 million maize mill, jointly donated by the government and the Grant Thornton Foundation, has been commissioned to empower the Twezimbe Luubu Group of the Blind in Mayuge District. The initiative aims to foster economic independence and provide a sustainable income for its approximately 100 visually impaired members. Source: https://nilepost.co.ug/news/355718/government-grant-thornton-donate-shs60-million-maize-mill-to-empower-visually-impaired-group-in-mayuge

The government, alongside the Grant Thornton Foundation, has officially handed over a Shs60 million maize-milling machine to the Twezimbe Luubu Group of the Blind in Mayuge District. This significant donation is poised to enhance the economic independence of the group’s nearly 100 visually impaired members.

Third Deputy Prime Minister, Lukia Nakadama, who commissioned the facility in Luubu Village, Bukatube Sub-county, emphasized the government’s dedication to improving the lives of persons with disabilities. She urged the leadership of the Twezimbe Luubu Group to manage the project effectively, ensuring it benefits both the members and the wider community.

Nakadama highlighted how this project aligns with government programs like the Parish Development Model (PDM). She encouraged members to leverage PDM funds to purchase maize, process it using the new mill, and thus generate more income, urging local PDM implementers to prioritize persons with disabilities.

Grant Thornton Foundation Director, Ankit Jangla, explained that the foundation’s decision to support the group stemmed from a televised report detailing the challenges faced by visually impaired residents in Mayuge. The foundation initially provided emergency aid before opting for a long-term investment in a maize mill to foster self-reliance.

“We realised the solution was something sustainable that could help this community stand on its own. That is how the idea of establishing a maize mill was born,” Jangla stated, calling the project the first phase of a larger partnership.

Representing the beneficiaries, group member Vazira Yayeli, highlighted the ongoing barriers to education and employment for visually impaired individuals. She appealed for strengthened inclusive education through specialized learning materials and expanded job opportunities.

This maize-milling project represents a crucial step towards economic empowerment for persons with disabilities and showcases the impact of collaborative efforts between government and the private sector. The initiative is expected to provide a steady income stream and foster greater self-sufficiency within the community.