LocationsUNDP and Ministry of Social Welfare host stakeholder consultation to enhance PWD Act 2011
July 31, 2024
A group photo of stakeholders at the policy consultation workshop
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In a major step to enhance the rights and welfare of persons with disabilities (PWDs) in Sierra Leone the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), in collaboration with the Ministry of Social Welfare, held a day-long consultation with key stakeholders to review the 2011 Persons with Disabilities Act.
The event brought together representatives from government agencies, non-governmental organizations, disability advocacy groups, and PWDs themselves from all 16 districts of Sierra Leone. The aim was to gather insights and recommendations for updating the Persons with Disability Act 2011 to better align with international standards and address the evolving needs of the disability community. In addition, the consultation was to also empower the Persons with Disability, to take ownership and comprehensively understand every provision of the Act.
In his opening remarks, Sayed A. Sahibzada, Deputy Resident Representative of UNDP, emphasized the importance of the consultation as disability is a crucial agenda, embodying the principle of leaving no one behind.
He said, "The review of the 2011 PWD Act is not just a legislative exercise but a commitment to ensuring that persons with disabilities enjoy equal rights and opportunities in Sierra Leone,” Adding, “UNDP is dedicated to supporting the government and all stakeholders in this critical endeavor."
Sayed A. Sahibzada, , Deputy Resident Representative speaking at the policy consultation workshop
The Minister of Social Welfare, Madam Melrose Kamity, emphasized the importance of the ongoing review, acknowledging past setbacks caused by administrative difficulties within the Sierra Leone Union of Disabilities Issues (SLUDI). She said, “Our objective is unequivocal to center individuals with disabilities in discussions on disability matters,” .
She also reaffirmed the steadfast commitment of government to inclusive policies.
Madam Melrose Kamity, Minister of Social Welfare at the consultation workshop.
The Commissioner of the National Commission for Persons with Disability (NCPD), Dr. Vandi Konneh PhD, emphasized the importance of reviewing the Disability Act of 2011. He assured stakeholders and participants of the Commission's unwavering commitment to robust implementation, recognizing disability as a critical developmental issue that demands united action.
Mohamed Alicious Kamara, the recently appointed Secretary General of Sierra Leone Union of Disabilities Issues (SLUDI), made a compelling appeal, urging individuals with disabilities to actively participate in the review process and to express their concerns for consideration. Mr. Kamara stressed the significance of addressing the unique challenges faced by people with disabilities in the Act, advocating for a document that genuinely caters to the needs of its intended beneficiaries.
This engagement underscores the joint efforts of the UNDP and the Ministry of Social Welfare to champion the rights of persons with disabilities and promote a more inclusive society for all Sierra Leoneans.