Standard Chartered Bank has donated the Shs74 Million to Straight Talk Foundation to support COVID-19 interventions for persons with disabilities in Uganda.
Persons with disabilities are some of the most vulnerable to risks presented by COVID. They may not be able to protect themselves sufficiently or have adequate access to relevant information on prevention measures.
In this regard, Standard Chartered Bank has extended Shs 74 million to Straight Talk Foundation to support persons with disabilities in the fight against COVID-19. The donation will primarily formulate and produce infographic materials to suit persons with cognitive disabilities in an easy-to-read, interpret, and understand manner.
The donation will also produce coronavirus awareness materials into accessible formats such as braille for people with vision disabilities.
“We are delighted to partner with Straight Talk Foundation, a credible NGO to support people living with disabilities in Uganda. At Standard Chartered, we strongly embrace Diversity and Inclusion as a key component of our strategic intent to drive commerce and prosperity through our unique diversity. Disability is one of the pillars of Diversity and Inclusion, which we are focusing on because persons with disabilities are likely to be severely affected compared to the non-disabled colleagues,” said Regina Mukiri, Head, Corporate Affairs, Brand & Marketing, Standard Chartered Bank Uganda.
“Most often they are not given top priority when planning or implementing projects, and they are faced with both self-esteem barriers as well as the misconceptions largely from the society that focuses more on what they are unable to do as opposed to appreciating their abilities. Therefore, we decided to intervene on their behalf because we believe that the donation will positively impact and help mitigate risks associated with COVID-19. By giving them access to information, it is my firm belief that they will have empowered,” Regina said.
The Executive Director and Director Programs, Straight Talk Foundation, David Talima, appreciated Standard Chartered’s gesture, acknowledging that the donation will make a huge difference in improving the health and wellbeing of persons with disabilities in Uganda.
