Juba today joined the rest of the world to commemorate the international day of people living with disabilities, under the theme “Together for a better world for all including people with disabilities in development.”
Henry Swaka, advocacy officer for Handicap International, told Bakhita Radio that the celebration is important because it offers time for people and governments to talk about issues that affect persons living with disabilities.He explained that South Sudan needs to sign the UN Convention on People Living with Disabilities so that the disabled are protected in the country.
Mr. Swaka said disability is not inability, adding that people living with disabilities can contribute positively for the development of South Sudan.
Richard Wani, Juba Cheshire Young Voices national coordinator, said the celebration can lead people to include persons with disabilities in all sectors of society.
Mr. Wani thanked the national government for its support to people with disabilities.
James Pitya, a disabled person who coordinates Young Voices in South Sudan said people with disabilities living in Juba are lucky because they receive some support from the government.
Mr. Pitya called on the government to support the office of people with disabilities in Juba in order for them to help their brothers and sisters in other states of south Sudan.
The celebration began with a march accompanied by police escort from Mobile roundabout and took place at Juba Football Stadium.