Africa-Press – Eswatini. The Deputy Prime Minister Senator Thulisile Dladla has declared that disability inclusion is not charity but a strategic national investment, emphasising that Eswatini’s economic and social strength depends on the full participation of persons with disabilities.
Senator Thulisile Dladla was speaking on December 3, 2025 during the International Day of Persons with Disabilities commemoration at the Mavuso Trade and Exhibition Centre, she said inclusive policies stimulate innovation, boost labour participation, and build resilient communities.
The Deputy Prime Minister stressed that the 2025 theme, “Fostering Disability Inclusion in Eswatini for Socio-Economic Progress,” is a call for urgent, measurable action. “This is more than a slogan but a clear call to action, a firm commitment to make words into action, policy into practice, and charity into rights,” she said.
Inclusion as National Progress
The DPM highlighted that persons with disabilities are central to national development, not a marginalised group. “They are mothers and fathers, sisters and brothers, entrepreneurs, thinkers, students, employees, community leaders vital contributors to Eswatini’s social fabric and economic future,” she said.
Quoting disability rights advocate Neil Marcus, she noted that disability is not a burden but a unique way of living: “Disability is an art. It’s an ingenious way to live.”
Four Priorities for Socio-Economic Inclusion
Inclusive Education & Skills Development: Expanding assistive learning, trained teachers, early intervention, and digital skills for youth and adults.
Employment & Economic Empowerment: Incentivising private-sector hiring, promoting disability-led enterprises, and eliminating discriminatory hiring practices.
Accessible Infrastructure & Information: Ensuring schools, clinics, transport systems, and public buildings meet accessibility standards and making public information available in accessible formats.
Social Protection & Targeted Support: Strengthening disability-sensitive social protection and support systems for caregivers and families.
She added that government-wide integration is essential. “Disability inclusion must be visible in all sector plans health, education, transport, employment and in the national budget,” she said.
Data, Accountability, and Leadership
The DPM emphasised the need for stronger data systems and monitoring frameworks. “We need better, disaggregated data to design effective programmes and measure progress,” she noted.
She also affirmed the principle of inclusive decision-making: “Nothing for us without us. Organisations of persons with disabilities must be partners at every level of policy and implementation.”
Partnership for Impact
Senator Thulisile Dladla praised the continued support of UN agencies, civil society, faith-based organisations, families, and the private sector. “Your collaboration is indispensable. Government will be bold in policy, rigorous in implementation, and transparent in accountability,” she said.
A Renewed National Commitment
In a heartfelt message, she assured persons with disabilities: “We see you. We hear you. We need your leadership, your ideas and your courage.”
She urged all sectors to treat the day as a launching pad for accelerated progress. “Let this be the day we redouble our commitment to concrete action and measurable change,” Senator Dladla said.
The government will soon convene a cross-sectoral review to assess gaps and fast-track implementation of the National Disability Plan of Action.
The DPM’s message was clear and powerful: Eswatini becomes stronger economically and socially,when persons with disabilities are fully included and empowered.
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