Stakeholders
from different sectors on Friday validated the National Disability Bill and the
draft Disability Integrated Policy at the end of a two-day forum held at a
local hotel in Bijilo.
The
forum was organised by the Ministry of Justice in collaboration with the United
Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Gambia Federation for the Disabled
(GFD).
The
bill and policy covered a wide range of topics including inclusive education
for the disabled child and special measures for the protection of women with
disabilities.
Speaking
on the forum, Solicitor General and Legal Secretary, Ministry of Justice,
Saffie Sankareh, said the documents are a testimony of the government’s
commitment to create a conducive environment for persons with disabilities to
enjoy their rights and realise their full potential in society.
She
pointed out that addressing all the economic and social needs of people living
with disabilities is fundamental in achieving an environment where such people
are empowered to realise their full potentials.
Ms
Sankareh noted that the adoption of the Convention on the Rights of Persons
with Disabilities by the UN General Assembly is a major milestone and
achievement in the history of disability movement.
“It
serves as a building block towards the promotion of equality and universal
access for people with disabilities throughout the world,” she said.
The
solicitor general said The Gambia government is determined to move forward with
the promotion and protection of the rights of persons with disability.
This
is why the government endeavours to develop the legal and policy frameworks to
eliminate all forms of discrimination and to guarantee the full inclusion of
persons with disabilities.
Chairperson
of the Gambia Federation of the Disabled (GFD), Isatou Sanyang, said the
validation forum is aimed re-affirming their shared concern for the welfare of
persons with disabilities.
According
to her, the forum will also promote the understanding of disability issues,
mobilise support to promote and protect the rights, dignity and wellbeing of
persons with disabilities.
Emily
Christie, Solicitor at DLA Piper who currently provides technical support to
UNICEF, said the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities provides
for the protection of the rights of the disables, especially children.
Fanta
Bai Secka, director of the Department of the Social Welfare, said the forum is
important in the government’s drive to domesticate the Rights of Persons with
Disabilities.
“Disability
is part of human creation and a manifestation of diversity in the society,” she
said. She further added that disability
is developmental issue that needs to be addressed to enable persons with
disability to have more access to services and facilities.
Madam
Secka said enacting the disability bill is timely.
