Having a disability does not make me worthless - Nimusiima

Anitah Nimusiima does not have both legs and one hand, however, this does not stop her from being a hands-on mother, qualified librarian and entrepreneur. 

She is the second of eight children born to Judith Kobukangwa and Amos Kamukama, a retired teacher and resident of Kacheera village in Mitooma district.

The 30-year-old lives in Beta village located in Kalangala district where she operates a cosmetics shop and snacks business.

Nimusiima lost her legs when she was nine months. She fell sick and was given an injection that caused her body to bulge and start rotting. The legs and hands gradually dropped off. 

Fast forward to 2017, Nimusiima fell in love with a man who promised to marry her. He seemed to be a good man and was from a well-to-do family. She thought he would make a good husband, however, when she conceived, he abandoned her.

 “Several men express interest in me, but they want to keep the relationship secret. They always prefer meeting me in the dark, something I find demeaning,” she says.

“Having a disability does not mean that I am not worthy. I value myself so much that whoever is interested in me, should match up to the qualities I want in a husband,” she asserts.

In 2017, Nimusiima gave birth to a baby boy. She says his father accepted the baby and introduced him to his family. The boy spends his school holiday time with his paternal grandparents.

Nimusiima relocated to Kalangala in 2019, following her sister Bridget Nabimara, who works with BIDCO oil palm company. 

MIFUMI, a women rights organisation that empowers women at the grassroots took interest in Nimusiima. They are training her in shoe making.

“I want to sell off my businesses and start a shoe manufacturing factory because it is convenient for me,” she says. 

Nimusiima went to Mitooma Junior School, Kyeibaale Girls SSS for O’level and Rwashamire Vocational Institute for a certificate in library studies.

Change your mindset

To those living with disabilities, Nimusiima says, adjusting to a new life can be difficult, but it is possible. 

“Just change the way you think and cope with your disability so as to overcome the challenges you face. You will enjoy a fulfilling life,” she says.

“Also, set your standards and let those that want to be with you meet them. Do not feel worthless and accept partners to date you in darkness. You are a normal human being and for that, you deserve love, respect and dignity. Besides, you have the potential to stand out and shine. Work hard and achieve your dreams and aspirations,” Nimusiima adds.