As November marks the beginning of Disability Rights Awareness Month, the government is calling for joint efforts to build an inclusive society for persons with disabilities.
Disability Rights Awareness Month is commemorated between 03 November and 03 December 2024.
This year’s awareness is recognised under the theme “Celebrating 30 years of Democracy: Creating a disability-inclusive society for a better quality of life and the protection of the rights of persons with disabilities.”
In an official statement by the Department for Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities (DWYPD), Minister Sindisiwe Chikunga reiterated the intentions to drive awareness and empower disabled people across the country.
“This month provides an important platform to champion disability rights and to work towards a South Africa where dignity and equality are universal.
Whether disabled or able-bodied, all individuals must be empowered to contribute towards an inclusive society,” said Chikunga.
Despite some transformations since the dawn of democracy, people living with disability still face challenges of being stigmatized, discriminated against and experience barriers in employment opportunities.
In this regard, the Social Department Ministry implored on the DWYPD to prioritise education and job creation for disabled people.
According to data by Stats SA, South Africa has a 7.5% prevalence rate of disability with a higher rate among females.
Despite persisting challenges, the country has seen progressive strides aimed at improving the quality of life for persons living with disabilities.
Among others, earlier this year, the Department of Transport announced plans to develop the country’s modes of transport, to ensure sufficient access to all passengers.
In the recreation sector, Team SA’s Paralympics squad made the country proud by finishing their campaign at the Paralympics held in Paris, France, with six medals.
Additionally, beauty pageant competition Miss SA crowned the first ever hearing-impaired 2024 Miss SA, Mia le Roux.
DWYPD further urged all citizens to promote, protect and respect the rights of people living with disabilities.
