In Buwaya Sub- County, Mayuge District, the story of Katooko Shafiga unfolds, a young woman whose determination became steps of hope for others. Born with a physical disability, Shafiga grew up facing the realities of stigma, limited opportunities, and social exclusion yet, she never allowed her disability to silence her dreams.
With a certificate in Information and Communication Technology, Shafiga believed education was her key to independence. But even after completing her studies, finding meaningful work remained a challenge. That’s when IDIWA stepped in, opening a new door of opportunity.
Through IDIWA’s livelihood support program, Shafiga received two goats as seed capital to start her journey toward financial independence. With patience and hard work, she nurtured them until she could exchange them for a cow.
“The cow became a blessing,” she said. “It provides milk for my family, and I sell the surplus to earn income. It has made my life easier.”
However, what truly set Shafiga apart was her drive to think beyond herself. Through IDIWA’s capacity-building and leadership training, she learned how to mobilize communities, engage local leaders, and advocate for inclusion. Using these skills, she successfully lobbied for a grain milling machine to support her community, an achievement that now benefits several households, particularly women, by saving time and generating income.
Her efforts have earned her respect not just as a young woman with a disability, but as a leader and change-maker.
“IDIWA helped me see my potential. I learned that I can be productive and contribute to development just like anyone else,” says Shafiga.
Today, she continues to inspire other young women with disabilities to believe in themselves and to use their voices for change. Her journey from a young woman struggling to find a footing, to an empowered community leader, is proof that empowerment works best when knowledge meets opportunity. Her story reminds us that when women with disabilities are supported and equipped with skills, they not only transform their own lives but also uplift entire communities.