What You Need to Know
The Lesotho National Federation of Organizations of the Disabled (LNFOD) has endorsed the government’s plan to expand disability grant beneficiaries from 2,000 to 4,904 in the next financial year. While this initiative is seen as a positive step for social protection, concerns remain as 800 qualifying individuals may miss out due to funding limitations. LNFOD urges the government to secure more to
Africa-Press – Lesotho. Lesotho National Federation of Organizations of the Disabled (LNFOD) has welcomed the government decision to increase the number of disability grant beneficiaries from about 2000 to 4904, in the upcoming financial year.
LNFOD Executive Director Mr. Rabasotho Moeletsi told the Agency in an interview that the initiative is a positive step towards strengthening social protection amongst Persons with Disabilities(PWDs) although 800 PWDs, who qualify for the grant would be left behind due to financial constraints.
He indicated that PWDs need the grant to cover rising living costs, including access to healthcare, assistive devices, and transport amongst others, calling on the government through the Ministry of Gender, Youth and Social Development to raise M6 million so that the remaining PWDs could also benefit from the grant.
Meanwhile, earlier when requesting M1, 480, 878, 657 from the committee of supply in the National Assembly, the Minister of Gender, Youth and Social Development Mr. Pitso Lesaoana indicated that although 3,200 PWDs had undergone medical assessment and qualify for the grant, about 2400 will receive the grant, adding to the existing 2000 or above but will leave behind 800 as the maximum limit would be reached.
He added that beneficiaries will be selected from all districts of the country, and that they will no longer receive M1,800.00 quarterly but monthly as M650.00.
LNFOD was established in 1989 to advocate for the rights and inclusion of PWDs. It plays a key role in influencing disability-inclusive policies, building the capacity of member DPOs, and raising awareness of disability issues nationwide.
The Lesotho National Federation of Organizations of the Disabled (LNFOD) was established in 1989 to advocate for the rights of persons with disabilities (PWDs) and promote their inclusion in society. Over the years, LNFOD has played a crucial role in shaping policies that support PWDs, ensuring their voices are heard in national discussions. The recent government initiative to increase disability grant beneficiaries reflects ongoing efforts to enhance social protection for vulnerable groups in Lesotho, although challenges remain in funding and accessibility.
