Sierra Leone Celebrates International Day of Persons with Disabilities

Sierra Leone Celebrates International Day of Persons with Disabilities

Every year on December 3rd, the world marks the International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD), a day dedicated to promoting the rights, dignity, and well-being of people with disabilities globally.

In Sierra Leone, the day was observed in Kenema at the Opportunity Training Center, bringing together individuals with various physical challenges.

Speaking under the theme: "Fostering Disability-Inclusive Societies for Advancing Social Progress," Mohamed Bad, Public Relations Officer for the Sierra Leone Union of Disability Issues (SLUDI), emphasized that genuine development is unattainable if any group is marginalized. He further noted that the day serves to raise awareness about the visible and invisible barriers faced by persons with disabilities, advocating for their full inclusion in all aspects of societal life.

Mohamed Kallon, the Secretary General, explained that the IDPD was established by the United Nations General Assembly to increase awareness of these barriers with the ultimate goal of achieving inclusion, participation, and recognition.

Mr. Kallon characterized the day as a call to action for all stakeholders, including the Government and local communities, to work collaboratively toward creating societies where persons with disabilities enjoy equal rights, opportunities, and full participation.

He concluded by highlighting the ongoing challenges faced by persons with disabilities and urging everyone to actively contribute to the day's significance.