On Tuesday, 3rd December, 2024, Vice President, Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, joined UNICEF, the National Commission for Persons with Disability (NCPD), and the Ministry of Social Welfare at the Miatta Conference Centre in Freetown to commemorate the International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD). The event emphasized the government’s commitment to improving the lives of persons with disabilities (PWDs) and ensuring their participation in the country’s development.
The celebration focused on highlighting the role of PWDs in Sierra Leone’s inclusive development and how innovation can create a more accessible society. This aligns with global efforts to provide equal access to social, economic, and educational opportunities for all, regardless of disabilities.
In his address, Vice President Jalloh reaffirmed President Julius Maada Bio’s vision of human capital development, ensuring equal access to opportunities for every Sierra Leonean. He announced government-supported scholarships for persons with disabilities, including girls and those with special needs, to promote education at all levels.
Additionally, a $1 million fund will be dedicated to skills training and technical education for PWDs, further empowering them to contribute to the country’s development.
UNICEF’s Deputy Representative, Liv Elin Indreiten, emphasized focusing on abilities rather than disabilities and highlighted a new mobile application designed to help visually impaired individuals access information and services. She praised Sierra Leone’s progress in disability inclusion, noting the country’s innovation in the field.
Remarks from key figures, including NCPD Commissioner Vandy Konneh, the Minister of Social Welfare, and First Lady Fatima Bio, underscored their commitment to integrating PWDs into mainstream society and ensuring equal access to all opportunities.
The event marked significant progress in Sierra Leone’s journey towards inclusivity, with the government and development partners working together to ensure PWDs have equal access to education, healthcare, and employment. The celebration reflected the country’s dedication to building an equitable society for all its citizens.
