Empowering leaders
Mani optimistic about development for persons living with disabilities
DESPITE the challenges of COVID-19, we remain optimistic over the future development for persons living with disabilities, says Western Disabled People’s Association president Ravindra Mani.
He made the comment while speaking at the International
Day of Disabled Persons celebrations in Lautoka.
Mr Mani said empowering leaders with disabilities could pave the way for more recognition of their basic human rights.
“The theme of this year’s celebrations is ‘Leadership and Participation of Persons with Disabilities towards an Inclusive and Accessible Post-COVID-19 World’ which means to empower leaders with disabilities in aspects of development, to have equal commitment and opportunities as contributors we need to invest and realise, commit to the precondition,” he said.
“These preconditions are support services; social protection, accessibility, assistive devices, non-discrimination and community based inclusive development for meaningful and equal participation.
“To bring it into action, we need multi-sectoral, whole of community approach, political will and advocacy and disability workshops at all levels as recognised under the UN breaking barriers towards systematic change and sustainable development goal 2030 to leave no one behind.”
Social Welfare director Rupeni Fatiaki said the pandemic would not affect their work in raising awareness of people living with disabilities.
“The National Council for Persons with Disabilities, the major service providers and organisations for persons with disabilities, have been working tirelessly with the support of our donor partners in advancing the rights and welfare of our persons with disabilities,” he said.