AAC provides the only professional services for children with disabilities in the Buikwe Region of Uganda.
Our Story
Since 2010, Mabira Collective (our partner non-profit organization) has empowered women and families.
Ashraf Namubiru is the son of Prossy, a Mabira artisan. Having cerebral palsy and epilepsy, Ashraf was a bright and strong young man who would light up any room. His cheerful and resilient attitude, despite constant pain and isolation, inspired the creation of the “Ashraf Ability Center.”
Sadly, Ashraf passed away on February 9, 2019.
With the building only partially constructed, he never had the chance to experience a day in the center built in his name. In his memory, we dedicate ourselves to children like Ashraf in the rural Buikwe District of Uganda.
Our Mission
We provide opportunities for growth for children with disabilities in Buikwe, Uganda with a focus on long-term family empowerment.
Our Work
In Everything, Love.
Education
Giving children the chance to learn, grow and gain independence through education.
We provide individualized and small group instruction for children ages 3-17 or until they are able to attend local schools.
Physiotherapy
Fostering independence through mobility.
Children with disabilities benefit from physical and occupational therapy to maintain mobility and independent functioning.
Medical Support
Half of Ugandan children with disabilities die before age 8.
Child mortality is high in Uganda and even higher for our children with disabilities. Our team monitors the children’s health and facilitates treatment, surgeries, and rehabilitation.
Home Support
Bringing hope and dignity to entire families.
We connect parents with one another, provide vital caregiving resources, and advocate for full community inclusion.
Our Team
Cynthia Asiimwe
Director
Cynthia was trained in Europe and has had years of work experience serving children with disabilities. Cynthia manages all Ashraf Ability services.
Florence Nankoole
Teacher and Community Coordinator
After many years as an elementary school teacher, Florence brings experience and enthusiasm to serving AAC children.
Bridget Caroline Nakanyike
Teacher and Community Coordinator
Bridget skillfully coordinates multiple services while completing her university degree in special education.
Stephen Nsubuga
Child Coordinator and Transport
A respected community member, Stephen serves as an “uncle” to the AAC children and connects them with essential services.
Jacob Atukunda
Child Coordinator and Transport
Jacob supports many aspects of our center, bringing positivity that keeps the children smiling and connected.
Nalongo Fiona
Child Nutrition and Facility Care
As a mother and member of the local community, Nalongo brings her whole heart to serving the children.
Madina Nagawa
Children Crafts/Handwork Coordinator
Serving many years as Mabira Collective’s team coordinator, Madina provides wisdom and exemplary compassion.
Tina Kyambadde
AAC Board Member and Director of Mabira Collective.
Tina designed and constructed our building. She provides support for AAC activities, including training and employment opportunities for women and mothers.
Partners
AAC Board of Directors
Tina Kyambadde, Melissa Sevy, Tim Smith, Ally Lund, Kelly Lund, Natalie Smith
Our Community
Since 2010, our extended team has collaborated with dozens of organizations and hundreds of families. The Ashraf Ability Center is an extension of the work of Mabira Collective, a Community-Based Organization in Lugazi, Uganda with the mission of providing opportunities for women and their families.
AAC serves Lugazi and the rural Buikwe District. We rely on local expertise, resources, and families. Community representatives facilitate our connections and ensure accountability.
AAC is located at the edge of the tropical Mabira Forest. Dense vegetation provides remarkable vistas and a sanctuary for an abundant life. Severely depleted, the forest requires renewed efforts to protect our national treasure.
Our local service delivery partners include:
Afaayo Child Health Education and Rehabilitation Unit ACHERU; Community Based Rehabilitation Alliance COMBRA; CoRSU Rehabilitation Hospital; Kawolo Hospital
