Africa-Press – Liberia. The National Commission on Disabilities (NCD) here appeals to government to allocate 15% of the National Budget for the development of people living with disabilities across Liberia.
The Government of Liberia’s commitment towards inclusivity of the disabled Community has been described here as illusional.
The Executive Director of the National Commission on Disabilities (NCD), Mr. Samuel Dean, who made the observation, is appealing to the government to allocate 15% of the National Budget to the development of people living with disabilities here.
Mr. Dean stressed that despite the government’s commitment to promoting inclusivity, tangible actions and financial backing are essential to make meaningful progress.
Addressing a press conference here on Wednesday, 9 April at the Commission headquarters after his return from a Global International Conference, Mr. Dean urged the government of President Joseph N. Boakai to allocate at least 15% of the annual national budget towards disability development in Liberia.
He noted that these discussions establish that good policies for persons with disabilities can only be crafted through their active participation in decision-making processes.
“As such, it is equally imperative that individuals living with disabilities have a seat at the table, influencing policies that impact their lives and ensuring the growth and development of their respective countries.” He noted.
Further speaking on the topic of Disability Inclusive Development, Mr. Dean reechoed statement by Cara E. Yar Khan that empowered Disability people can transform lives as such; by investing strategically in disability-related initiatives, Liberians can transform the society and ensure that all citizens are meaningfully included in the country’s development plans.
“Countries like Australia have shown us the way by allocating a percentage of their national budget to disability initiatives, and if Liberia were to invest just 15% of our annual budget towards disability development, we could lift countless individuals out of poverty and despair”, he maintained
He suggested that as Liberia moves forward, it is essential that the government uphold its commitment to the Amman Berlin Declaration, adding that this landmark declaration represents a pledge to bridge the longstanding US$4 trillion financial gap that has left persons with disabilities marginalized and disenfranchised.
“And Liberia’s signature on this declaration reflects our unwavering dedication to fostering an inclusive society where all citizens can thrive. We must remember there can be no development without disability equity.”
The disabled advocate emphasized the urgent need for increased funding and resources to improve the lives of individuals with disabilities.
Providing update of his participation in the 3rd Global Disability Summit held in Berlin, Germany, where he engaged with international leaders and advocates on pressing issues facing people with disabilities worldwide, Mr. Dean expressed gratitude for participating in the program.
The Global Disability Summit stands as a pivotal moment in the global movement for disability rights, and convened civil society, government leaders, and advocates from over 100 nations, under one noble goal: to improve the lives of persons with disabilities.
Throughout the summit, Dean said they participated in a variety of sessions and discussions focused on critical issues that resonate deeply within their own context back home.
According to him, the delegation further engaged in insightful forums on key topics such as public life, data collection, and disability-inclusive development, all in the interest of persons living with disabilities worldwide.
“Together, let us champion this cause with passion, determination, and compassion for all Liberians because investing in disability development is not just a moral obligation; it is a fundamental human right. So, we hope that the government can see the need to commit 15% of the national budget for people with disabilities, to empower our communities and foster a more inclusive society,” the NCD boss reiterated.
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