Friday marks International day of persons
living with Disabilities The day is observed to promote the rights and
well-being of people with disabilities at every level of society and
development. Additionally, it also aims to raise awareness of the situations of
persons with disabilities in all aspects of political, social, economic and
cultural life.
According to the World Health Organisation
(WHO), more than 1 billion people experience disability, and this figure is
predicted to rise, due in part to population ageing and an increase in the
prevalence of non-communicable diseases
This years theme is ‘Leadership and
participation of persons with disabilities toward an inclusive, accessible, and
sustainable post-COVID-19 world’.
The Western Cape's Social Development MEC,
Sharna Fernandez, has encouraged citizens to get involved by participating in
advocacy and awareness programmes that promote the rights and well-being of
persons with disabilities.
"People with disabilities are among the
most vulnerable and neglected people in South Africa. Many of these individuals
face economic and social barriers that adversely affect their physical, social,
intellectual, and emotional development.’’
"We need to welcome persons with
disabilities into our lives, and teach communities how to assist in providing
equal opportunities for them, and to appreciate the abilities and possibilities
of persons with disabilities. One of the best ways to better understand and accept
persons with disabilities is to involve both persons with and without
disabilities in shared community activities, fostering inclusion," added Fernandez.
PICTURE SUPPLIEDDone by Lizeka Tsotetsi
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